Opelika Observer 03-04-2020 E-edition

pelika Observer O

Wednesday, March 04, 2020

Vol. 12, No. 22

“By local people, for local people.”

Opelika, Alabama

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Remembering those we lost on March 3, 2019

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Pastor Rusty Sowell of Beauregard’s Providence Baptist Church points at a rendering of the planned memorial that will be built on his church’s campus to honor the lives of the 23 individuals who lost their lives during the March 3, 2019 tornadoes during Tuesday’s remembrance service. Turn to A2 for more photos from Tuesday night’s event.

Muscadine Lane Boutique Salem residents opens storefront in Opelika Wayne Wommack

and Judy Kempf named ‘Hometown Heroes of the Month’

City of Opelika seeks to annex quarry site

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter David and Donya McCollum opened their first business, Opelika Town Automotive on May 1, 2018, and later opened a second business across the street known as O-Town Auto Sales.

The McCollum family recently added Muscadine Lane Boutique within a shared space in the home of O-Town Auto Sales located on 1418 Second Ave. The boutique started as an online fashion site, but because of popular demand from customers, the See Boutique, page A3

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Editor Wayne Wommack and Judy Kempf of Backwater BBQ in Sa-

lem were selected as the February “Hometown Heroes of the Month”

by Columbus’s ABC affiliate WTVM. See Wommack, page A3

By Opelika Observer Staff The Opelika City Council voted on Tuesday night to

approve a resolution to draft legislation to seek passage of a local bill to extend See Opelika, page A3

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14

COMICS....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 POLITICS...................................B7 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B11

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Set clocks forward this weekend

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A2 March 04, 2020

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Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell

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w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

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pelika O Observer Coronavirus update from EAMC Special to the Opelika Observer News of the 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been growing since the virus began in Wuhan, China in November. China is the most populous country in the world and containing the virus has been difficult.

It was initially limited to the Wuhan Province, but has since spread to other provinces in China as well as to Japan, Italy, Iran, Hong Kong and now, South Korea. So far, there have been 62 patients treated in the United States, mostly in the western states and upper midwest.

With Auburn University’s diverse population and local industries with ties to some of the affected countries, EAMC officials are taking the necessary steps to prepare for the possibility of

the COVID-19 presenting itself in our region.

In the last two months, we have already had no less than seven multidisciplinary meetings regarding the Coronavirus within EAMC and also participated in several conference calls with the CDC, the ADPH and the Alabama Hospital Association.

EAMC officials are tracking news on the COVID-19 regarding its spread and protocols on isolation and treatment. Also, instructional signage has been placed at the main entry points at EAMC, EAMC-Lanier and at the Auburn University Medical Clinic, and we are continuing communication to all area physicians to make them aware of our actions and plans. Fred Kam, M.D., the medical director of the AU Medical Clinic, is a member of the AU Task Force

regarding the COVID-19.

He attends meetings at AU and EAMC and shares information on the actions each is taking to address the COVID-19 situation.

At the hospital, several staff members are being trained on every component of caring for a patient with COVID-19, including the donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE) so as not to spread the virus to other patients or employees.

Like the seasonal flu, the elderly, the very young and those who are immunocompromised are the ones who are most at risk. Likewise, good hand hygiene, covering your cough and limiting public exposure are the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Therefore, everyone is asked to please wash their hands often, avoid touching their face, rou-

tinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and stay home when sick.

For more information on the COVID-19, visit www.cdc.gov/Coronavirus or www.alabamapublichealth.gov.

People with a history of travel in the last 14 days to China, South Korea, Italy, Iran or Japan and are not experiencing symptoms should call the Alabama Department of Health Infectious Diseases and Outbreaks Division at 1-800-3388374.

People who have a history of travel in the past 14 days to China, South Korea, Italy, Iran or Japan and are experiencing any of the following symptoms: fever, cough or difficulty breathing should call 334-528SICK. Watch for more details in the coming days.

‘20 Under 40’ service project underway Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Chamber of Commerce’s “20 Under 40” program is filled with 20 young professionals who are residents of Opelika and under the age of 40. The program is designed to develop leaders in the Opelika community by focusing on multiple topics such as the history of Opelika, the educational opportunities available, health and public safety, planning and future growth of the city and more. In addition, the class selects a service project they would like to take part in each year.

The 2020 Class of 20 Under 40 is more than halfway through the program and are weeks away from completing their selected service project.

This year’s class decided to assist fellow 20 Under 40 class member Gregory Johnson with his annual Mother-Son Dance for his nonprofit organization, L.E.A.P.S. Mentoring.

L.E.A.P.S. Mentoring,

Wommack, from A1 Wayne, an Army veteran, was contacted by the television station last month and invited to a Columbus River Dragons game, where he received word that he and Kempf had been nominated and selected for the recognition. According to WTVM’s website, the award is given to an “everyday person doing extraordinary things in the community.”

The couple uses the restaurant to help give back to the community, particularly local special needs and veterans organizations, often providing

which stands for “Leadership, Education, Achievement, Partnership, and Service,” is a proactive program that has the ability to curb potential crime, poor academic performance and other negative aspects of bad decision making. Johnson began the organization in 2014 when he realized he was encountering a lot of young men through his job in law enforcement.

“I started this organization as a way to build positive interactions with young men in the hopes of helping them become better citizens,” Johnson said.

One of the programs Johnson uses to achieve this goal is the annual Mother-Son Date Night.

This event gives boys of all ages the opportunity to learn how to be gentlemen and how to treat women, in this case their mothers, with respect. The Mother-Son Date Night is set for March 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Greater Peace Baptist Church and will feature music by DJ Ozz, dancing, food, a photo

booth, games and prizes.

For more information and tickets for the event, go to L.E.A.P.S. Mentoring on Facebook.

The 20 Under 40 class has been planning this event since August. The class members have been divided into four separate committees: communications, sponsorship, planning and logistics and food/entertainment.

In addition, the class has two chairs leading the project - Emma Holman (Auburn University- Harbert College of Business) and Michael Barlow (East Alabama Medical

Center).

“The service learning project is designed to achieve two main objectives: 1) successfully assist in planning and executing the annual Mother-Son Date Night and 2) assist L.E.A.P.S. Mentoring in establishing a productive advisory committee for the organization and its programs to remain sustainable. We are extremely excited to partner with Greg on this event,” Holman said.

For more information, contact Mackenzie Kayler at mkayler@opelikachamber.com.

steep discounts to those groups of people who are close to their hearts.

Following the March 3 tornadoes, they provided meals for volunteers who were assisting in the clean-up and recovery process, which was made possible by donations from Lake Harding residents as well as area churches and schools.

“We just see a need and help where we can.

It’s the people on the lake that allow us to do these things (like) providing support and assistance when needed,” Wommack said. “Being a veteran myself and having a special needs brother has shown me the needs and difficulties these people

go through every day.”

In a November interview with the Observer, Wommack said he continues to live as a soldier by looking out for his fellow veterans, young and old alike, by maintaining frequent or almost daily contact with some of them to help combat the onset of depression or isolation.

“On average, 22 to 23 veterans die every day. I’ll sometimes call, sometimes text them, and if I don’t get an answer, I’ll go beat on their door because I don’t want them to become part of that statistic,” Wommack said. “Those personal demons are real, and I want to be in that fight

with them. And if I can’t, I want them to know that they don’t need to quit and that they shouldn’t feel like giving up.”

As for the award itself, Wommack said he and Kempf are humbled to receive the recognition.

“It is an honor to be associated with HomeTown Heroes, and to be selected. (I) still feel it couldn’t be done without the generous lake people,” Wommack said.

“We just honestly run point. We couldn’t do it alone.”

For more information about the award and how to nominate someone, follow WTVM’s social media platforms or visit www.wtvm.com.

A3 March 04, 2020

AmEx partnering with Main Street America in nationwide contest Special to the Opelika Observer American Express is teaming up with Main Street America to provide 10 small business owners $10,000 each to help their businesses thrive. The grant program is intended to support small business owners who are adopting innovative approaches to traditional business strategies and those looking to try out creative techniques, while also helping to revitalize and strengthen older and historic commercial districts.

Grant applicants will be asked to demonstrate their commitment to supporting their local community and to the principles described in American Express’ Future of Shopping Small guide. The guide is filled with actionable tips that can help small business owners begin to future-proof

Boutique, from A1

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

boutique was transitioned to an in-person shopping experience.

The boutique’s storefront officially opened two weeks ago. Customers are able to order specific items online and come by the store for pick up.

McCollum encourages shoppers to “come in, feel at home, feel comfortable, find items that are inexpensive, leave the store happy and wanna come back.” The clothing style is a blend of modern and contemporary with shipments coming in daily and sizes ranging from XS to 3XL. The boutique also sells accessories, shoes and home decor.

Interested customers can join the Facebook group titled “Muscadine Lane Boutique” and see all upcoming shipments, as well as order items for delivery or pick up.

The storefront is open

Opelika, from A1 the corporate limits of the municipality of Opelika.

The proposed property, located north of the city, includes the site of the proposed quarry that Creekwood Resources has submitted permits for. With the council’s approval, the resolution will be legally required to run four weeks of public notice by publication.

“The proposed bill will be submitted to Lee County’s local delegation, that’s

their businesses.

The deadline to apply for the grant is March 31, 2020 or whenever the first 3,000 applications have been submitted, whichever is sooner.

Learn more about the program on our website and apply here. Be sure to tell your small business owners to review the Program Terms prior to submitting their application.

Eligible small businesses are those businesses in the U.S. with fewer than 100 employees that are recognized as a business (e.g., not an unincorporated contractor or selfemployed individual), that are not part of a national franchise and that operate out of a physical location (i.e. online only businesses are not eligible).

Membership in the National Main Street Center is not required to be eligible.

Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The McCollums are proud to say Opelika Town Automotive’s repair service “is a one-stop shop and whatever (customers) need, they can do it.”

With more than 50 years combined automotive experience, the locally owned repair shop “strives to offer the best quality work at the most competitive prices amongst both small and large jobs.”

Whether customers need an oil change, diesel repair or general tuning performance, O-Town is happy to be of service.

The repair shop is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while the car lot is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information on the repair shop, customers may call 334-7376636. For more information on the boutique, customers may join the Facebook Group “Muscadine Lane Boutique Group.” seven members in that delegation,” said City Attorney Guy Gunter. “(The) legislature will be going on spring break later on and this will come up right after when spring break ends ... that’s the timeline of getting this before the legislature.”

Rep. Pebblin Warren, head of Lee County’s delegation, will be asked to introduce the bill before the legislature.

The annexation would consist of approximately 1.95 square miles or 1,250 acres of land.

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A4 March 04, 2020

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Old Songs

am in traffic listening to an oldies AM radio station. Extreme oldies. The music coming through my speakers takes me to an antique world of hi-fis, beehive hairdos, and weird congealed salads.

The radio DJ says, “...

And that was a song from Benny Goodman, now let’s hear one from the Les Baxter Orchestra...”

I remember my granny listening to Les Baxter albums. One such album was called “The Primitive and the Passionate,” circa 1962. On the cover was a photo of a woman who could’ve passed for Sophia Loren, dancing in a sultry way, beckoning to all who looked upon her.

Even little Baptist boys.

I remember the record playing on a turntable.

It was lush and tranquilizing. When you hear music like that, you are immediately transported to an earlier time, sitting on a plastic-covered sofa, watching someone’s dad — usually named Gary, Frank, or Dennis — use a cocktail shaker to make a Manhattan.

I remember another Les Baxter record, “Space Escapade” (1958). On the cover was Baxter dressed in a spaceman suit with spacegirls falling all over him. Keep in mind, he looked a lot like your grandfather’s dentist.

But the record was great. An hour’s worth of exotic orchestral music that sounds exactly like being trapped in a department store with your mother while she’s trying on dresses.

“Attention shoppers,” the department store intercom says. “Special on

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By Sean Dietrich Aisle 12, make your own julienne fries with the new Fry-O-Matic! $14.99 with rebate. Also, ask your sales associate about our sale on boy’s athletic supporters.”

The radio station is now playing selections from the country music vein. Conway Twitty.

Hank Snow. Followed

by Buck Owens, singing “Together Again.” I turn it up.

If I close my eyes, I’m sitting in front of a Zenith console TV with my father. On the screen: Roy Clark and Buck Owens are surrounded by their “Hee Haw” gals in cutoff denim shorts. And childhood is grand. Roy is picking banjo. The Reverend Grady Nut is telling jokes about Baptists.

Next, the radio spins some Willie Nelson. I turn my stereo as loud as it will go. The tune is “Stardust.”

Geez, Louise. I used to have this album. I almost wore it out. Willie’s rendition of “Stardust” is mournful, just the way the song was meant to be.

The lyrics go: “And now the purple dusk of twilight time, “Steals across the meadows of my heart…”

This isn’t simply music. It’s American poetry written by Hoagy Carmichael, who penned a thousand flawless tunes like “Georgia on My

Mind.” Willie sings this song in a relaxed way— maybe a little too relaxed, if you catch my drift.

And it makes me remember a time during childhood when I thought life was going to be easy, like all children do. Before I learned that nothing is easy, not even julienne fries.

Back when “Little House on the Prairie” was still on the air. When “Love Boat” was still considered racy because sometimes the actresses wore culottes, and according to the fundamentalists who raised me, culottes were a one-way ticket to Hell.

Nat King Cole comes on next. And I’m officially an emotional basket case. He sings “The Very Thought of You.” Hot water builds behind my eyes. But it doesn’t drip. Not yet. Not until the next song, which is: Jimmy Durante’s “I’ll Be Seeing You.” His raggedy voice comes through the speakers with the quintessential hoarse tone of an old man.

“I’ll find you in the morning sun, “And when the night is new, “I’ll be looking at the moon, “But I’ll be seeing you.”

Niagara Falls.

Music does this to me.

In my earliest years, I played guitar and accordion. I was godawful. But on my ninth birthday my father gave me a piano.

I practiced like a maniac and after years of struggling, I finally managed to get worse.

By Sarah West as with all things, I reinforce my belief that what may be right for me may very well differ from what is right for another. Each person must find one’s own way to connect with the things before him.

As often as the topics of approach and observation surface within my class atelier, so does the topic of museums as a whole.

I’m unfailingly astonished to learn that most whom I know visit museums rarely.

Being one who frequents museums on a nearly weekly basis, I find this infrequency by others perplexing. Whether it be a museum of natural history, region, government or arts, chances are there is one located within 20 miles from each of us. And there are great chances that there is at least one museum

t’s a February afternoon in Alabama.

For those of you familiar with this part of the world, you know that you can count on one thing – that the weather is the one thing you can’t count on!

Just yesterday, I had the air on in the car when I left work.

This morning, a light jacket was perfect for my morning drive. By mid-afternoon, the rain clouds had returned and it was slightly muggy.

But just three hours later, here I sit with the metal bleachers frozen to my back side and my breath making fog in the air. The temperature has plummeted to the low 40s. We’re cheering on my best friend’s daughter who plays second base for her high school softball team.

Believe me – love is the only thing that would make me smile and yell “Go Dawgs!” while my internal organs freeze solid.

There’s a good turnout today. We southerners love our high school teams.

We apparently love our concession stand snack foods just as much because there’s a line wrapped around the concrete building where they’re serving hot dogs, nachos, and an assortment of drinks and candy. I’m not sure if it’s the smell of the food that’s drawn people to huddle up and wait or if it’s the warmth radiating out from the giant heaters

See Dietrich, page A6

Revitalizing the Museum Experience

return to the museum.

I revisit my favorite works time and again.

Each time, I adopt a new approach.

Contrasting with my previous visit, I examine the work differently, allow for observation and then contemplation. When first gaining introduction to a newly exhibited work, I find myself compelled to gravitate briskly towards it. If the piece strikes me, I waste no time in my approach, first at a distance, then up close; and then I shift about, lean in towards it and then back away. If there is a seat or bench nearby, I’ll sit within view of it. All the while I consider this new image. I avoid the works credentials, statement, etc… In this avoidance, I derive my own authentic interpretation of the work before me. I take into consideration what this piece means to me, and how this piece does move me. Only then, once I feel I’ve spent adequate time with it, do I consider myself conditioned for whatever details, facts and figures might be revealed in written script. This is an approach that works for me, and a method I often convey to my students. But

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within the same distance which boasts free admission. These are the places of higher learning, treasure keeping and cultural preservation, exhibition and advancements. All of these can only be achieved via attendance and participation.

The museum experience should be anything other than dull. It should stimulate the mind, reinvigorate the spirit and fill us with pride. Within and without my class atelier, I encourage all whom I encounter, to visit a museum, but take with you a new approach.

Revisit the places you have been and the things which you have seen, and do so again and again, only each time with a new perspective, a contrasting vantage and expanded sightlines.

Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of Cultural Arts relevance and prose.

She is a preservation and conservation advocate, activist and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on regional narrative painting. She is the founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, a center for cultural arts, Smiths Station’s premier fine-arts destination.

Sliding Home

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By Wendy Hodge

inside the concession stand. Either way, my best friend and I are joining the queue.

And then I spot it… a sign that reads “Boiled Peanuts!”

Let me just take a moment right here to tell you about my relationship with boiled peanuts. It’s a love/ hate thing, and it’s a long-standing one. I absolutely love the taste… that salty, warm peanut flavor and the soft crunch of a peanut that’s been boiled almost to death….

Just the smell of them brings back memories of summer afternoons with my grandmother, sitting on the front porch sharing a giant metal bowl of peanuts she had boiled herself that day.

I believed, as a child, that the bowl was like Mary Poppins’s magic bag. It seemed bottomless and was always full. Her German shepherd Sugar would sit at our feet and pray we’d drop a bite.

Eating a boiled peanut is, for me, like tasting the best parts of my childhood all over again.

But, lawdy, they sure are messy! There is no lady-like way to eat a boiled peanut. You just have to dive in with all

10 fingers and accept the fact that, when you’re done, you’ll need a shower.

Boiled peanuts, for those of you who are not familiar, are served in a about a gallon of briny liquid that coats your hands when you reach in to grab a bite.

When you squeeze the shell to remove it, that same liquid squirts out in every direction.

And then, when you raise your hand to your mouth, it runs down to your elbow, leaving you covered in salt and peanut juice. It’s heaven! But it’s a mess.

I have to have some.

And so, after we’ve waited our turn and placed our order and paid for our dinner, we settle back onto the same freezing seats.

Cradling my hot chocolate in one hand, I dive into the peanuts. And there it is…. my childhood. Right on the tip of my tongue. Literally.

Looking around, there are familiar faces. People who were kids when I was a kid are now parents themselves. We wave a hello to each other and ask, “How’s your mama?” A teacher stops us to tell us how much she loves my best friend’s daughter and how “she’s a star.” And I remember that feeling of pride when someone else sees your child for the special person they are.

Other memories flood back. I’ve sat in See Hodge, page A6

Here are the Boomers

while back, my buddy Art, who lives down the street, made a personal contribution to my research. Cleaning out old books, she found a copy of Boom, and gave it to me.

Compiled by Joel Makower, Boom is a collection of trivia about Baby Boomers, the largest demographic blip in American history and the generation that made the Age of Aquarius what it was.

At the outset, let me say that I am not a Baby Boomer. I am a War Baby. By the time returning servicemen began the Boom, I was two years old. When the last of the Boomers was born, I was entering my teens. But my world was shaped by them, so what they did and was done for them, I often did and had done for me as well.

Now, I suspect that most of you who were born in the Boom and came of age in the 1950s and 60s will hardly be surprised at the changes brought on by your generation.

I wasn’t.

Take music. The list of popular songs picked by the class of 1952 in my high

By Hardy Jackson

school could have been picked by their parents – swing, Big Band, jazz and Dixieland, crooners and smooth quartets. Flash ahead to what the class of 1962 listened to – Chuck Berry, the Everly Brothers, Little Richard and, of course, Elvis. Meanwhile, waiting in the wings to drive parents over the edge were the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

But that’s old ground that has been gone over so many times that even back in 1985 when Boom was published, the response was likely, “so what.”

On the other hand, buried down in all the trivia I found some stuff that was interesting – at least to me.

In 1985, the youngest Boomers were turning 30 and according to a popular saying of the 60s, not to be trusted. The oldest were creeping into

their 40s – ‘nuff said.

When polled, this generation was pessimistic. Since 1975, they had been battered by a stagnant economy and held back by the sheer number of Boomers competing for jobs. The belief was widely held that they would never achieve the financial success their parents enjoyed and that the standard of living which they had been accustomed to as children was out of their reach as adults.

Maybe their pessimism was justified, but when I thumbed through all the things accomplished by Boomers, the list is impressive, and not just in popular culture.

From race relations to health care, from public safety to politics, Boomers made a difference.

Think about it.

Boomers took on big tobacco, got cigarette advertising off TV and warnings put on tobacco packages.

Boomers took on the auto industry and got safety standards.

Boomers took on polluters and got the Clean Air Act. See Jackson, page A6

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A5 March 04, 2020

‘The Great Indoors Auburn-Opelika’ Arbor Springs holds Mardi Gras Parade will create birthday memories

By Morgan Bryce Editor Parents struggling to plan their child’s next birthday party can turn those worries over to “The Great Indoors AuburnOpelika,” a locally owned business that officially opened on March 2.

Owned and operated by Wes and Caroline Cutcliffe, The Great Indoors is a “small event company specializing in indoor camping experiences for sleepovers.” Seeing this as a trend in other parts of the country, Caroline said she wanted to lead the way in the Auburn-Opelika area and provide this service to local families.

“We’re for those people who want to host something in their home, that want to have a special experience for their child and us be thought of as that solution,” Caroline said.

The Cutcliffes have been married since 2014 and relocated to the area last June when Wes accepted a surgical position at East Alabama Medical Center.

After having two children, Caroline stepped away from her full-time career in event management and planning, though she never lost her passion for that line of work.

In January, Caroline’s idea for The Great Indoors began to crystallize, and

she has been busy since developing her business model, with pricing varying order to order.

Through the business’s website, www.thegreatindoorsao.com, parents will be able to fill out a form with information about the type of party they’re hosting, amount of tents and desired theme.

Caroline said their theme selection is small but will develop and expand based on customer demand. Current examples include camping and hunting themes for boys and princess themes for girls.

Other services offered

by The Great Indoors include creating and mailing party invitations for clients, bell (circus, carnival-like) tent and projector rentals and working with local businesses to create party favors like embroidered towels or monogrammed items.

Currently, The Great Indoors’ service covers a

60-mile radius, though they will deliver and set up in cities including Columbus, Lake Martin and Tuskegee. Some areas, however, will require a delivery service fee.

In addition to expanding their themes and offerings, Caroline said she hopes to form partnerships with local caterers and other businesses to help fill out party packages for customers.

“While I can certainly see us being a vendor for some of the local event venues or maybe having one of our own eventually, it’s important to us to stay small and local for our own community.

Much like our themes are capable of aging up or down, we want to grow with the families and residents of Auburn, Opelika and greater Lee County,” Caroline said. “When we host a birthday party for a six-year-old, we hope to see him or her year after year, choosing a new theme, then graduating to a backyard experience for a “Sweet 16” party or even a unique atmosphere for a wedding shower. We hope to be the turn-key solution for many different types of celebrations all around the community.”

For more information, call 770-354-0658, like and follow the Facebook page or visit their website.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Opelika’s Arbor Springs Health and Rehab Center hosted a Mardi Gras celebration last Tuesday. Residents dressed up for the occasion, enjoying food and music and an appearance from Aubie.

‘Choose to Lose’ Fitness competition begins this week in Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika SportsPlex is starting a new initiative that will help their members achieve their fitness goals. Choose to Lose is a spin-off of NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” and it will feature two 6-person teams competing for the cham-

pion title.

Each participant will complete a fitness assessment at the beginning and end of the challenge to track their progress. The assessments will include a body composition analysis, a grip test and a squat test. Each team will be assigned a personal trainer to guide and motivate

them throughout the competition.

The competition will last six weeks. Each week, the two teams will meet with their trainers and attend a group fitness class. A registered dietitian will meet with each team member at the beginning of the challenge and will check up with them halfway through

the competition to see how they are doing and to offer encouragement.

“We wanted to start a program that had a holistic approach to wellness,” said Adult Activity Coordinator Valeri White. “We’re excited to be partners in their journey to better physical, mental and emotional health.”

The teams and trainers will be revealed on March 5 and the competition will begin on March 9. The competition ends and the winner will be announced on April 16.

For more information on the competition, visit www. opelikasportsplex.com.

The venue is located at

1001 Andrews Road.

Village Friends help make Auburn-Opelika age-friendly

By Beth Pinyerd Opelika Observer Have you heard of Village Friends? They are possibly your neighbors who have come together to make the AuburnOpelika area age-friendly!

Village Friends is a community-based, selfgoverning, nonprofit organization that offers area seniors a support system that help them maintain their independence in their homes as long as possible.

Often, you’ll see seniors accompanied by a sweet, smiling encouraging friend who brings them to organization meetings. I met Village Friends through Lee County Low Vision Group “The Eyes Have It.” How exactly does Village Friends make our community “agefriendly?”

Village Friends pro-

vides or helps to arrange a variety of services that meet the needs of organization members when they request assistance.

The organization relies on dedicated volunteers to fulfill these requests.

All volunteers are trained.

There is no charge for the volunteers’ services beyond the modest annual membership fee. When professional services are needed, Village Friends can provide referrals to a trusted contractor database.

This network for senior independence combats social isolation and loneliness by collaborating with government business and local agencies.

By providing transportation, local services are improved.

Village Friends also coordinates a monthly lunch buddies and supper club programs at area restaurants. Social opportunities, programs and workshops of interest are offered several times a year by local profession-

als.

To be a volunteer, member or support, contact the organization’s director Mical Traynor at 334-209-4641 (office) or 423-305-9692 (cell).

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer.

TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS If you began working in a Textile Mill, Tire Plant, Paper Mill, Steel Mill or any other industrial setting before 1980: You may have a claim against the asbestos manufacturers.

Call now for your free evaluation.

1-(888)432-6020 Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law ARPC 7.2.(e) “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

pelika O Opinion

A6 March 04, 2020

Put your tax refund to work for you EAMC hosts remembrance

T

he Internal Revenue Service reported approximately 49.8 million returns have been filed through the end of February, which tracks similarly to the same period in 2019. Of the returns filed to date, 37.4 million will receive refunds worth $117 billion, and averaging $3,125 per return. Further, 35 million of the 37 million returns filed have elected for a direct deposit.

Filing season has now been open for slightly longer than a month, and the data shows again this year that the majority of taxpayers are receiving money back.

Nearly 156 million tax returns were processed in 2019, and almost 112 million of them received a refund. If you are one of those 110-plus million taxpayers anticipating a refund, now is a good time to consider how you will put it to work for you.

Here are a few options worth considering when determining how to spend your tax season windfall: 1. Pay off debt – Credit card debt is expensive. Many studies show that Americans carry more than $5,000 of credit card debt on average. High interest rates can greatly magnify the cost of whatever you purchased on the card, so putting a large cash payment onto such debt helps to reduce the stress on your cash flow.

2. Save for retirement – Now is a great

Dietrich, from A4 As a kid, I fell in with no-good musicians who were older than I was.

I’ve done a lot of playing throughout my life. My first beer joint gig was before I was old enough to shave. I worked me-

Hodge, from A4 these bleachers many times before. My nephews and my son played years of ball games here, starting with T-ball and working their way up to play with the “big guys.” More than once, I spent an inning at one field and then raced to another field and finally to a third, trying to split my time evenly among the three boys. I cheered

Jackson, from A4 Boomers took on two presidents, causing one to decide not to run for re-election and one to resign.

Under Boomer pressure in 1974, child-resistant safety caps were required on prescription drugs. Although older

Justin Smith time to open an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or contribute to it to help fund your future retirement. Never assume Social Security will be enough to sufficiently fund their retirement lifestyle, so contributing to a traditional or Roth IRA (talk to an investment advisor about the best options) and investing the funds in long-term growth opportunities can help to provide a comfortable retirement lifestyle.

Also consider taking your existing traditional IRA or 401k rollover and converting it into a Roth IRA to maximize your tax-free retirement options.

3. Invest in nonretirement accounts – The Coronavirus scare is real and has significantly depressed the markets.

Buying opportunities are plentiful for longterm investors. Consider investing in tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as IRAs, or putting money into non-retirement accounts that you can take profits from anytime.

4. Save it – You will not build significant wealth in low-yield

savings accounts, but the value of immediate access to liquidity for emergencies cannot be overstated. Financial experts encourage you to have three to six months of living expenses available in the event of a job loss or unexpected catastrophe. Use your refund to bolster your liquid cash in an FDIC-insured savings account can help you meet that objective. Liquidity provides a great deal of comfort in uncertain times and helps reduce your dependence on living paycheck to paycheck.

5. Be generous with it – Americans are also some of the most generous people in the world, and a windfall presents a great opportunity help others.

6. Invest in yourself and your family – Go back to school, learn a new skill, or start a new business with your refund serving as seed money.

7. Enjoy it – It’s your money!

Regardless of what you choose to do with your money, the fastest way to obtain it is to e-file your return with a direct deposit of the refund. April will be here before you know it, so don’t delay.

Justin Smith is a licensed certified public accountant in Opelika, specializing in individual and small business tax and accounting. He can be contacted at 251-2092579 or Justin@JSmithCPA.net. His website is www.jsmithcpa.net.

service for March 3 anniversary

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika observer

nial jobs by day and raced across town to play music each evening.

I learned to sing Hoagy Carmichael, Merle Haggard, Ray Charles, Buck Owens, and Willie.

And I came to appreciate songs that meant something to me.

I turn off the radio. I wipe my eyes.

Beside me is a vehicle

of teenagers. They’re listening to music so loud that it sounds like a nuclear explosion—only less interesting. They are gyrating inside the cab like rabid squirrels in heat.

The light turns green.

Our mass of vehicles surges forward. The light turns red.

Now I am beside a

young man in a Chevy truck. He is listening to loud modern country pop music with his windows down. A song with lyrics that go—these are actual lyrics: “She’s got it goin’ on like Donkey Kong, “And (WHOO-WEE!) shut my mouth, “Slap your grandma, there outta be a law...

“How’d she get them britches on...?”

The guy glances at me before revving his engine for effect. His motor rumbles louder than a Central Asian land war, vibrating my windshield.

He speeds away and I am left alone in a purple cloud of exhaust.

I’ll bet the kid has never heard of Les Baxter.

Let alone julienne fries.

Or culottes.

I turn on the radio on again and listen for more Willie. Because even though it’s old music, it never gets old.

Dietrich is a columnist, novelist, and podcast host, known for his commentary on life in the American South.

when they hit the ball or when they stole a base.

And I encouraged them when they struck out or never made it up to bat at all. How many times have I heard the whack of a bat connecting with a ball and wished so hard with everything in me for one of my boys to catch that ball? Or how often have I leaned forward in my seat and watched one of the three of them standing at home plate waiting for the perfect pitch? Too many times

to count. But, oh how quickly all those games and innings and months and years flew by.

It is the bottom of the fourth inning, and my best friend’s daughter is on third base. The pitcher throws a curve ball, and the bat is swung. There’s the familiar crack, and everyone turns to watch as the ball skids low towards first base. My best friend and I lean forward and watch as his daughter, who is fast as quicksilver, leaves third

base behind and heads for home. “She’s going to slide home,” my best friend says. And she does. The pitch is thrown toward home, and the red mud flies. And she is safe!

She stands and looks toward the crowd. Her dad is on his feet cheering, and I’m right there with him. And it’s as if all those evenings spent under the lights on these fields and the Saturdays racing between games and the concessions

and the trophies and the after-game parties have never actually ended.

They just continue on, like the endless supply of my grandmother’s boiled peanuts. There will always be a game to play and someone to cheer on and someone to cheer with.

When the game is done, and we are heading to the parking lot, my best friend’s daughter has that afterglow that comes from an adrenalin rush on an open field. “Y’all, I

slid home!” she says.

“I haven’t done that in a long time. I wasn’t sure I could still do it!”

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Wendy Hodge is an Opelika native, an empty nester and lover of all things Opelika. She previously had a column titled A Word or Ten, which was featured in the Tennessee Star Journal and is currently awaiting release of her first novel with Harper Collins Publishing Company.

boomers will complain that this made it difficult for them, it also meant that in the two decades after they were introduced, accidental poisoning of children under five dropped 45 percent.

That is 460 children given a chance to grow up and get to know their Boomer parents and grandparents.

Which brings us to sex, a subject Boom

dwells upon in detail.

As well it should, for as much attention has been paid to how Baby Boomers changed American sexual attitudes as has been paid to the way they changed the nation’s musical tastes.

However, down deep in all the trivia, I discovered one instance in which an attempt by the “older generation”

to use sex as a political weapon resulted in a change whose repercussions are still being felt today.

In 1964, Congress was debating what would be the Civil Rights Act – a law that Boomers will champion in years to come.

Title VII of the proposed legislation prohibited discrimination on the basis of race,

religion, and national origin. A representative from Virginia who opposed the bill got “sex” added to the list. This, it is generally believed, was a maneuver calculated to kill the whole thing.

It didn’t.

The bill passed and from that day hence efforts to eliminate discrimination on the basis of gender is a

cause embraced by Baby Boomers.

They are not done yet.

As the youngest Boomers now turn 60, new challenges await.

I wonder what they will do next?

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: March 16 - Sean Dietrich book-signing event at Books-A-Million Tiger Town March 20 - Comedy Night with Killer Beaz March 21 and 22 - Opelika Rotary Club’s Bobbie Harris Classic March 26 - Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at the Gogue Performing Arts Center March 27 to 29 - 2nd Annual Opelika Songwriter’s Festival

Twentieth Century Study Club celebrates 100th anniversary Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

W

ith a legacy of Opelika’s most prominent families, the Twentieth Century Study Club is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Members have been hearing programs on the club’s interesting history during the last 100 years. Beth Brewer is president, and Betty Letlow is chairman of the program committee, which included Louise Brasher, Gail Swarthout and Judy Smith. The club will host a historical celebration tea April 14 at the Brownfield House.

The club began when Mrs. W. T. Andrews, a

member of the Opelika Book Club, became concerned about the lack of scholarly activities for younger women in Opelika. In 1919, Mrs. Andrews enlisted the help of Margaret Williams, a young high school teacher.

On Feb. 3, 1920, a meeting was held at the home of Miss Williams to organize a book or study club among the young matrons of Opelika.

Along with Mrs. W. T. Andrews, others attending were Mrs. T.D. Samford, Mrs. Andrew Dowdell and Mrs. N.D. Denson, also of the Opelika Book

Club, to graciously assist in establishing the new club, Charter members of this new club included: Mrs. R. A. Carroll, Miss Estelle Butler, Miss A. Frances Crossley, Miss Mary Denson, Mrs. Bullard Harris, Mrs. John Harwell, Mrs. J. E. Hackney, Mrs. Velma Meadows, Miss Corrine Palmer, Miss Gladys Renfro, Miss Elizabeth Rush, Mrs. O. H. Tatum, Miss Marion Taylor, Mrs. A.J. Thigpen Jr., Mrs. J. D. Tollison, Mrs. C. S. Shealy, Mrs. Ira Mayfield, Miss Helen Williams, Miss Margaret Williams and Mrs. Walter Wilson.

Photo by Ann Cipperly The Twentieth Century Study Club is celebrating its 100 th anniversary this year. Members pictured are, from left, first row, Vondalyn Hall, Sally Sheehan, Louise Brasher; second row, Myrtle Blevins, President Beth Brewer, Program Chairman Betty Letlow; third row, Ginger Perkins, Gail Swarthout, Sybil Gross; fourth row, Susan Stanley, Linda Warren, Anne Blake, Joan Salter; back row, Jean Kelley, Pat May, Emily Smyth, Faye Parkman, Carolyn Moore, Becky Burkett, Sarah Strawn, Margaret Walker, Judy Smith and Nancy Burgess. Members not pictured are Judy Buda and Mary Collins.

In addition, four young women, who were away at college, were listed as “elected members,” including Miss Inez Duke, Miss Fannie Merritt Jones, Miss Elizabeth Samford and Miss Gertrude Ross.

Also, honorary members were Miss Margaret Gillis, Miss Bertha Hud-

mon, Miss Frances Lamb, Miss Mariam Pearson and Miss Ruth Youngblood.

An executive committee was formed with Margaret Williams as chairman.

The executive committee was charged with drawing up a constitution and bylaws, as well as selecting a name for the club.

They decided on the

name Twentieth Century Study Club, which would meet twice each month.

Mrs. A. J. Thigpen Jr. agreed to host the next club meeting Feb. 17, 1920.

The bylaws required that a certain percentage of the members be public See Cipperly, page A11

Opelika Songwriter’s Festival Opelika Rotary Club’s Wiffle Ball tournament to benefit local charities announces venues for event

By Will Fairless Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer

The Opelika Rotary Club will be holding the first annual Bobbie Harris Classic “Backyard Ball” (“Wiffle Ball” but without infringing on copyright) tournament at West Ridge Park in Opelika on March 21 and 22.

The proceeds from the tournament will benefit two organizations, the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama and the Golden State Foods Foundation, the latter of which will provide concessions for the tournament. The Exceptional Foundation, according to its website, “is a nonprofit organization established to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and provide opportunities for those participants to thrive and be engaged in social and recreational activities.”

The Golden State Foods Foundation’s mission is “to improve the quality of life of children and families in need in the areas where GSF associates live and work through personal involvement and contribution,” per the foundation’s website.

The tournament, which will be held rain or shine, will be split into three categories: all male, all female and co-ed. Players must be at least 14 years old unless accompanied by their parents or legal

THE SOUND WALL Rob and Jen Slocumb, the creators of the Opelika Songwriter’s Festival, purchased a historical Victorian home built in 1907 and restored and repurposed the home into a beautiful multi use recording studio with a pro tools control room and an ISO room as well as a small performance room, a chef’s kitchen and an artist residence.

During the festival,

guardians. Each team, in addition to a guaranteed two games in the tournament, gets a spot for one of their players in the home run derby, which will be on March 20.

Shey Knight, the Rotary Club president, is hoping that the tournament could eventually be a biannual event.

“I would love to turn this into a multiple weekend event, but it’s gonna be lighthearted and fun and different,” Knight

said. He added that although the event will be held in that laid-back spirit, there are prizes for the winners in each category.

Teams consist of 4 to 6 players and pay $150 to sign up. Spots are still available, and registration can be completed at opelikarotaryclub.com. The rules of the tournament and more information about the club and event can also be found on the website.

HAPPY HOUR Monday through Friday 3pm to 6pm Select

$2 Domestics $5 Appetizers

there will be songwriter’s workshops. Warning - these events sold out in advance last year.

Grab your tickets now.

SNEAK & DAWDLE Sneak and Dawdle is a comfortable speakeasy lounge in the heart of historic downtown Opelika, where one can imbibe a specialty cocktail, craft beer, or glass of wine with friends. It is hard to find the entrance (by design) and it takes a couple of minutes to adjust to the dimly lit, early 60s bar interior. Once accli-

mated, you will enjoy music from the festival stage set up against the back wall and enjoy alcoholic beverages of the highest order in this very classy joint.

AMPERSAND WINE BAR Are you a wine drinker? Do you get tired of going to fancy wine bars and finding that all they sell are grocery store wines that have been opened and reshelved for three days? Sign up now for the festival and go See Venues, page A8

A8 March 04, 2020

pelika O Observer Venues, from A7 straight to Ampersand.

It has one of the most extensive wine lists (450 bottles) in the country AND all wine is served from Coravin dispensers – which means the bottles are unopened and pristine. Owner Nelson Marsh will educate you on French and Italian wines and will be your best friend by the end of the Festival weekend.

IRISH BRED PUB One of the highpoints

of the inaugural festival last year was the Saturday brunch and music round on the second floor of the Irish Bred Pub on Railroad Avenue. The Fish & Chips and Crab Boxty are must haves with your Guinness or Bloody Mary.

You will be in a groove with a packed house of familiar faces after a great night of music on Friday night and two days left to take in.

CHIRPWOOD GALLERY Chirpwood Gallery will host singer songwriter (and Alabama na-

tive) Abe Partridge and show his unique folk art throughout the Festival weekend. Drop by 405 10th St. (next to the Opelika Farmer’s Market) and take in Abe’s work and other Southeastern artists repped by Chirpwood - and admire their custom hand made wood frames.

Stayed tuned for more venue and artist previews. And keep in mind if you play golf or tennis, the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National is minutes away from the festival stages.

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pelika O Opinion

A9 March 04, 2020

Eighth annual ‘Bark in the Park’ slated for March 21 Special to the Opelika Observer Join Active Auburn as they kick off the “8th Annual Bark in the Park” on March 21 at Auburn’s Kiesel Park with a threekilometer race for you and your furriest friends.

Organizers encourage people to grab their running shoes and perfect running “pawtner” for a doggone good time.

Don’t have a running “pawtner”?

No worries, the Lee County Humane Society will have adoptable pups available to accompany Jog-a-Dog program participants.

To run with a LCHS pup, one must complete the Jog-aDog training before the race. To register for Jog-a-Dog training, visit www. leeecountyhumane. org.

& Flea Mall

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Those who complete the program before the race will receive a discount code to use during online pre-registra-

tion that will ensure a pup will be available to run with them on race day. Adoptable dog running partners will be available on a

Grab a Gift Certificate for Your Sweetheart for Valentine’s Day!

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first-come-first-serve basis.

Late and day-of registration costs $25 and can be completed via www.auburnalabama.org/parks/ programs/activeauburn/.

A limited number of t-shirts will be available to day-ofrace participants on a first-come, firstserve basis.

Race participants are encouraged to utilize the Nunn Winston entrance off Chadwick Lane for parking and access to the race day registration and check-in table, which will begin at 7:15 a.m. at the Kiesel Park dog

park. Day-of registration ends at 7:45 a.m.

The route can be viewed on activeauburn.org and auburnalabama.org/parks.

This will not be a timed event.

Prizes for the top-3 finishers overall and awards for the bestdressed pups will be announced at 8:45 a.m. under the white pavilion.

Make sure to stick around for the event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy a variety of vendors promoting responsible dog ownership.

The park is located at 520 Chadwick Lane.

www.eamcfoundation.org

Contact: Amy Thomas Amy.Thomas@eamc.org

Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info

SIERRA HULL MARCH 20

the jay and susie gogue performing arts center at auburn university

DON’T MISS THESE UPCOMING PERFORMANCES AT THE GOGUE CENTER Sierra Hull Friday, March 20 • 7:30 p.m.

Camille A. Brown and Dancers Saturday, April 18 • 7:30 p.m.

Dover Quartet and Bridget Kibbey Tuesday, March 24 • 7:30 p.m.

Zakir Hussain and Friends Tuesday, April 21 • 7:30 p.m.

The Oak Ridge Boys 20/20 Tour Friday, March 27 • 7:30 p.m.

Baby Shark Live!

Wednesday, April 22 • 6 p.m.

Alfredo Rodríguez and Pedrito Martinez Duo Tuesday, April 7 • 7:30 p.m.

Air Play by Acrobuffos Friday, May 8 • 7:30 p.m.

Tickets available now!

334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTER.AUBURN.EDU

pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 school teachers.

This was done “to ensure a scholarly element.”

Membership in the club was considered prestigious.

Each meeting of the early club featured two literary presentations, an occasional musical presentation and elaborate refreshments. For a few decades, the club was as late as 6 p.m. adjourning, while today’s meetings are usually adjourned by 5 p.m.

The 1920-21 year began Sept. 7, 1920, with Miss A. Frances Crossley serving as hostess. The topic for the first full year of meetings was American novelists. The September program topic on Winston Churchill was presented by two members with the “Life and Works of Winston Churchill,” while another member concluded the program with a musical solo.

During roll call of the club meeting, each member was asked to answer with a current event.

Recipes Orange Dream Mini Cupcakes Beth Brewer, Club President 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 large eggs 1 Tbsp. grated orange zest 1 Tbsp. orange juice ½ tsp. vanilla extract 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1½ tsp. baking powder ¼ tsp. salt ½ cup buttermilk Buttercream: ½ cup butter, softened ¼ tsp. salt 2 cups confectioners' sugar 2 Tbsp. milk 1½ tsp. vanilla extract ½ cup orange marmalade Preheat oven to 325.

Line 48 mini-muffin cups with paper liners.

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in orange zest, orange juice and vanilla.

In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beating well after each addition.

Fill prepared cups twothirds full. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 11-13 minutes. Cool in pans 5 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely.

For buttercream, in a large bowl, beat butter and salt until creamy. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth.

Using a paring knife, cut a 1-in.-wide cone-shaped piece from the top of each cupcake; discard removed portion. Fill cavity with marmalade. Pipe or spread buttercream over tops.

Rice-Green Chili Casserole Betty Letlow Program Chairman 6 cups cooked Minute rice ½ lb. Velveeta cheese, cubed 1 cup sour cream Small can chopped green chilies Dry chopped chives Garlic powder to taste Salt & pepper to paste Add all ingredients to hot rice and put into greased casserole dish. Bake until semi-set, (about18 minutes) at 375 degrees.

Shrimp Canapes

Current events continued to be the choice for roll call in 1921-22. The club’s program committee chose the theme famous women, which included a program on “How will suffrage affect the women of America and future politics?”

Other themes for the first decade of the club included art, playwrights, travel to other countries and U.S., modern drama, the South in contemporary literature, recent tendencies in the theater and creative reading.

Preparing a club program was not an easy task in those days. Since there was not a public library in Opelika until 1941, members depended on Auburn University’s library to research assigned topics. In the 20s, many depended on public transportation.

Some of the young ladies were hesitant about going to Auburn without an escort because the student body was comprised of mostly males.

During the 30s, the Great Depression did not deter the club. Among its members were family names that would become prominent in contribut-

Sarah Strawn This recipe dates to the 70s. I often used it at teas/ receptions when teaching at AU School of Human Sciences. Can also use to make dainty open-face sandwiches for a tea if spread on firm bread and cut into rounds or triangles.

3 pkgs. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened 2 tsp. horseradish 1 jar seafood cocktail sauce Dash of hot sauce 1 lb. cooked and peeled shrimp, finely chopped Crackers or toast rounds Combine cream cheese, horseradish sauce, and enough cocktail sauce to yield a mixture with consistency of a thick spread. Blend in shrimp. Chill 2-3 hours.

Serve with crackers or toast rounds.

Note: I buy 1 ½ lbs. fresh shrimp at the grocery and have them steam in creole or old bay seasoning.

Macaroons Sybil Gross 2 egg whites, beaten stiffly 1 cup powdered sugar ½ tsp. vanilla ½ tsp. almond extract 1½ cups cornflakes 1 cup coconut Combine sugar and egg whites.

Fold in flavorings, cornflakes and coconut.

Drop by spoonsful on cookie sheet.

Bake in slow oven at 300 degrees just long enough to dry and brown a little.

My Mother’s Carrot Spread Pat May My mother always served these little sandwiches when she did wedding receptions or teas, and they were very popular.

8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 1½ cups finely grated carrots ¾ tsp. onion juice (2 tsp. grated onion and juice) Salt and pepper to taste 1 cup chopped nuts Mix and let sit in refrigerator for a couple of days. Add a little mayonnaise when ready to spread, if desired.

ing to the growth and prosperity of Opelika, including Barnes, Brown, Denson, Dorsey, Duke, Floyd, Hall, Harwell, Horsley, Hunter, Lee, Lowe, Mardre, McClure, Meadows, Palmer, Ponder, Renfro, Samford, Shaffer, Shealey, Tatum, Taylor, Roberts, Watson, Whittlesley and Williams.

At this time, a member who did not notify the hostess of an intended absence by noon of the day of the meeting would be fined 25 cents.

The April 1934 program featured a “Historical Expedition,” which was conducted

by Dr. George Petrie of API, founder of Auburn football.

In 1936, phone numbers of members were listed for the first time in the yearbook. The club began holding a business meeting in January, which is continued by the club today.

As the club began its 20th year in 1940, World War II had begun.

Programs through 1946 included “Women’s Part in the War,” “Winning the War and Peace” and “The Bible, Our Heritage.”

Lemon Cookies Susan Stanley From my grandmother’s dog-eared copy of “Our Heritage Cookbook,” United Methodist Church, Abbeville.

1 box lemon supreme cake mix 1 egg 4 oz. Cool Whip Mix all ingredients together and drop by teaspoon onto cookie sheet. Do not overcook.

Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

Punch for a Crowd Nancy Burgess 6 cups sugar 4 cups water Two 6 oz. pkgs. Jell-O - the color/flavor your preference 16 oz. container frozen orange juice 16 oz. container frozen lemonade Two 46 oz. cans unsweetened pineapple juice 1½ oz. almond extract 1 gallon water 3 quarts ginger ale, chilled Bring water and sugar to a boil in a large pot.

Then add the remainder of ingredients and mix well.

Freeze mixture in gallon Ziplock bags.

Defrost punch until mushy before serving Add ginger ale to defrosted punch and serve Makes 3 gallons.

Caramel Apple Dip Louise Brasher 2- 8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese softened 1 ½ cups light brown sugar 1 cup regular sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1 pkg. Health Almond Brickle Granny Smith Apples Pineapple Juice Mix the cream cheese, sugars and vanilla together.

Stir in the Heath Brickle.

Refrigerate overnight.

Serve with apple wedges soaked in pineapple juice.

Chicken Agnes Judy Smith 9 chicken breasts, boiled and chopped 1 medium can olives, chopped

In September 1948, under the leadership of Mrs. O.N. Strickland, the club held a Saturday luncheon at the Cozy Tea Room in West Point, Ga., with a tour of handsome new homes.

In 1949 -50, Mrs. Yetta Samford Sr. was listed as president. The topic was “Our Last Fifty Years-1900 to 1950.”

In 1951-52, a “purpose” was printed in the yearbook. It read, “The Purpose of this organization shall be for reading and discussion of such literature as shall broaden and enlighten those engaged therein.” The purpose is still listed in the club constitution.

On Oct. 8, 1951, the guest speaker was J. Edward Bungay, head of the home decorating department at Rich’s in Atlanta.

He introduced Mr. Griffin, a member of his staff, who spoke on “What’s New in Interior Decorating” for the year’s theme, “What’s New in Our World.”

In January 1953, the annual club luncheon and business meeting was held in the private dining room at The Chicken House Restaurant in Opelika

1 small bottle artichoke hearts, chopped 2 small cans cut pimento 2 medium onions, sliced into rings 1 extra-large bottle Wishbone Italian Dressing Mix and let marinate for two days.

Maida Heather’s Lemon Cake Emily Smyth 1 cup butter, softened 2 cups sugar 3 eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 1 cup buttermilk 2 tightly packed Tbsp. grated lemon zest 2 Tbsp. lemon juice Solid shortening for greasing the pan Lemon icing, recipe follows Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in eggs one at a time, blending well.

Sift flour, baking soda and salt.

Stir in alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Add zest and lemon juice.

Grease a 10 inch tube pan and pour in batter.

Bake for 1 hour and 5 minutes; test for doneness. Do not cook longer than 1 hour and 15 minutes. Put cake pan on top a bottle or a rack to cook for ten minutes.

Remove cake from the pan and spread icing at once while the cake is hot.

You can use a toothpick to poke holes in the cake to absorb the icing.

Lemon Icing 3 ½ to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar ½ cup butter, softened 3 tightly packed Tbsp. grated lemon zest ½ cup lemon juice Blend sugar and butter thoroughly.

Mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice.

Bacon Dip Vondalyn Hall Two 8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese 4 slices thick bacon, fried crisp 5 oz. can mild Rotel tomatoes with chilies ½ medium onion, finely chopped ¼ tsp. chili powder Soften the cream

A11 March 04, 2020 known for its fried chicken and white tablecloths.

Dues at this time were $1.50 per year.

When the club celebrated its golden anniversary in 1970, the topic for the year was “Highlights Of the Last Fifty Years.” Inez Duke Searcy was a charter member when the club celebrated its 75th anniversary. In commemoration of its diamond anniversary, the programs were a walk down memory lane, reviewing the changes in art, architecture, fashion, entertainment, medicine, transportation, communication and literature over 75 years.

When Hurricane Eloise arrived in 1975, it did not stop the club from meeting. The hostess, Eleanor Hall, didn’t have electricity, causing her to alter the refreshments. Members had to drive around downed trees to ger there, but the club met.

They excused Inez Searcy for a few minutes when her son came to report her house was without a roof. She told him to get it fixed and went back to hear the program.

The last 25 years of the club have continued

cheese.

Mix cream cheese with a mixer until creamy.

Add other ingredients and mix well using the mixer.

Chill and serve with your favorite crackers.

Apricot-Sour Cream Tea Cookies Myrtle Blevins Cookies 1 roll refrigerated sugar cookies 1 cup pecan halves ¾ cup dried apricots ¼ cup apricot preserves ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon ¼ tsp. ground cloves ¼ cup sour cream ¼ cup all-purpose flour Glaze 2 cups powdered sugar 1/3 cup milk Let cookie dough stand at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften.

Meanwhile, heat oven to 350 degrees.

In the food processor, place pecans, apricots, preserves, cinnamon and cloves. Cover and process with on-and-off pulses 20 to 30 seconds or until pecans and apricots are finely chopped and mixture holds together.

In a large bowl, mix pecan mixture and sour cream.

Crumble cookie dough into pecan mixture, stir with wooden spoon until well blended.

Stir in flour until well blended.

Drop dough by 24 heaping tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto greased cookie sheets.

with interesting programs, reflecting current interests.

Themes have included giving back to the community, celebrating life, Food Network chefs and many others.

In 1998, First Lady Mrs. Fob James gave members a tour of the Alabama State Capital.

In 2002, members attended the dedication ceremony of the Inez Duke Search Genealogy Room at the Lewis Cooper Memorial Library. The club has donated books to the library.

In 2000, there was a discussion to change the name of the club to 21st Century study club, but it was voted down.

The club changed from having two meetings to one meeting a month.

Dues are now $15.

As the club starts another decade, the membership is strong and determined to keep the club going with fellowship and interesting programs for the future.

Following is an assortment of favorite recipes from club members.

Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@cipperly.com.

Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until light golden brown.

Cool on cookie sheets for 2 minutes; remove to cooling racks.

Cool completely, about 20 minutes.

Place waxed paper under cooling racks.

In a medium bowl, stir powdered sugar and milk until smooth.

Dip tops cookies into glaze; place on racks and let stand 5 minutes.

Dip cookies again; let stand 5 minutes longer or until the glaze is set.

Date-Cheese Tidbits Margaret Walker ½ lb. sharp cheddar cheese 1 stick margarine 2 cups sifted flour Red pepper, if desired 1 lb. pitted dates Pecan halves Let cheese and margarine softened to room temperature. Put cheese in the mixer and whip until thoroughly mixed. Add margarine and continue beating.

Add sifted flour and mix well.

Chill mixture in the refrigerator. Stuff each date with a pecan half.

When the cheese/flour mixture has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and pinch off enough to wrap around each date.

Place wrapped dates on ungreased cookie sheet and bake in preheated 305 degree oven for 20 minutes.

See Recipes, page A14

Food Ratings Sword & Skillet 2352 Bent Creek Road Auburn Score: 100

Bojangle’s 2520 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika Score: 98

Zoe’s Ice Cream Delite 2757 Alabama Hwy 169 Opelika Score: 100

Little Caesar’s 1515 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 97

Eighth and Rail 807 S. Railroad Ave. Opelika Score: 99

Backwater BBQ 5330 Lee Road 379, Salem Score: 96

Mama Mocha’s Coffee Emporium 715 1st Ave. Opelika Score: 98

El Patron Mexican Grill 2212 Frederick Road Opelika Score: 96

pelika O Observer

A12 March 04, 2020

First Baptist to host ICEJ conference on April 17 and 18 Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer First Baptist Church of Opelika will hold a conference will look back to God’s faithfulness in all He has done for the Jewish people in and through the ministry of ICEJ, while looking forward with excitement at how the Lord will use Christians as He fulfills His plans and purposes for Israel! The event will have special guests like Aaron Shust, Pastor Saleem Shalash, Rev. Malcolm Hedding and more.

OBITUARIES Mark A. Folds A memorial service for Mr. Mark Allen Folds, 59 of Opelika, was held at 2 p.m. Feb. 26, 2020, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Visitation began one hour before the service.

Mr. Folds passed away Feb. 21, 2020, at his home. He was a native of Georgia but has lived most of his life in Opelika. He was a veteran who proudly served in the U.S. Navy.

He is preceded in death by his mother Bobbie Folds; brother Jeff Folds; sister-in-law, Cathy Folds, and nephew Alex Folds.

He is survived by his two sons: Noah (Chole) Folds of Washington, and Brian Folds of Auburn; father, Billy Folds; step mother, Doris Folds both of Opelika; sister, Julie (Brian) Knotz of St. George Island, FL; brother, Mike Folds of Opelika.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

James L. Davis James L. Davis of Opelika, Alabama was born to the late Reverend Eddie and Evelyn Davis in Alexander City, Alabama on Jan. 24, 1943, and passed away at his home on Feb. 23, 2020. He was 77 years old.

He was of the Baptist Faith.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jamie Davis; brother-in-law, Ed Scarbrough.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jerry Ann Davis; Children, Jeremy Davis (Mary), Jeffrey Davis (Mindee); grandchildren, Zak, Ashlei, Tristin, Ella, Isabeau, and Rory; sisters, Patsy Scarbrough, Connie Canon (Dick), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

A graveside service was held at Garden Hills Cemetery Feb. 28, 2020. Mr. Dick Canon officiated.

Keith J Ward Keith J Ward, 81, passed away at home on Feb. 24, 2020. He was born in Jerome, Idaho June 11, 1938 to F.G. “Jack” Ward and Katie Ward. Keith received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and his master’s degree in Public Administration from Brigham Young University. He received his PhD from the University of Tennessee.

Keith has been a resident of Auburn since 1976.

After working for Auburn University for 26 years, he retired in 1998 as Professor Emeritus of Public Administration and Director Emeritus of the Center for Governmental Services.

After many happy years of working at Auburn University, he enjoyed following the Auburn Tigers, traveling the world, reading, writing, and spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his father, F.G. “Jack” Ward, mother, Katie Ward, his siblings: Jack, Stan, Gene, and Gale Ward, and

children, Donnie Rawls and Brad Ward.

Keith is survived by his wife of 38 years, Rowena Ward, his children Bryan (Pam) Ward, Deanne (Rhon) Jones, Bruce (Franny) Ward, Brook Ward and daughter-in-law Lisa Ward, his sister, Elaine Wolfe, and grandchildren Michael (Brianna) Ward, Lauren Ward, Chase Ward, Taylor and Katie Rawls, Will, Mary Baker, Jack and Luke Jones, Austin (Bailey), Sarah and Megan Ward, and Madelyn Ward.

A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Feb. 27 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Visitation followed at the family home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to East Alabama Food Bank, 355 Industry Drive, Auburn, AL 36832, or Storybook Farm, 300 Cusseta Road, Opelika, AL 36801.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

Ashley Paige Kuykendoll Ms. Ashley Paige Kuykendoll, 29, of Opelika passed away February 28th. A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, March 4th at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

She was survived by her parents Kim and Chris Brooks; siblings: Amber Kuykendoll, David Kuykendoll (Amber Worley); niece: Kambree Kuykendoll; nephews: Noah Kuykendoll, Klayton Kuykendoll, Caiden Kuykendoll, Jayce; grandparents: Buck and Danielle Heidler, Bud and Patricia Brooks; aunts and uncles: Kelly and Ricky, R.C. and Amanda; Aunt Kim, and Aunt Robin.

Ashley was a daughter, sister, aunt, grandchild, and best friend. She was also

Rosa Pauline Allen

the biggest hearted person and was loved by many. The small things in life made her the happiest like hanging out with loved ones, playing ball with the kids, and planting her little gardens. She had a great love of photography and animals and was known to sneak a chicken or a rabbit into her mom’s house from time to time. She was an angel on earth and will be an extraordinary angel in God’s Kingdom. There will forever be a hole in our hearts and the world will be a little less without her.

Everyone who knew Ashley knows how she loved her comfy pj’s and liked to wear them everywhere. In her honor we invite anyone who wishes, to wear theirs.

Rosa Pauline Allen of Opelika, Alabama was born in Wedowee, Alabama to the late Reverend Charles Winston Holloway and Rosa Etta McKibben Holloway on November 14, 1930 and passed away at Arbor Springs on February 25, 2020. She was 89 years old.

She was preceded in death by her son, David Scott Allen, and 15 brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Milton Allen; children, Greg (Judy) Allen, Beverly (David) Knight, Susan (Robert) Hutto, and Steve (Yolanda) Allen; grandchildren, Jason Berry, Charity (Bo) Collins, Heath Allen, Matt (Kimberly) Berry, Jared (Dana) Knight, Josh (Amanda) Knight, Daniel (Alison) Allen, Aaron (Mari) Allen, and Makaila Allen; bonus grandchildren, Hailey Hutto, Cameron Hutto; great grandchildren,

Cameron (Kayla) Berry, Jordan Berry, Rachel Berry, Carlos Leal, Trace Berry, Maddie Berry, Amiyah Lindsey, Elizabeth Knight, Jed Knight, Alaina Knight, Alexis Allen, Jae Knight, Jet Knight, Jesse Knight, Logan Allen, and Abigail Knight; bonus great grandchildren, Evan Collins, Kayla Cooper, Haley Collins, and Christian Collins; great-great grandchild, Callie Berry; bonus great-great grandchildren, Briella and Everly.

Visitation was held Friday, February 28, 2020 in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m.

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on Feb. 28, 2020, at 11 a.m. with Evangelist Howell M. Berry.

Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Eldora Robinson Darby Mrs. Eldora Robinson Darby, of Opelika, Alabama, died in Chicago, Illinois, on February 14, 2020, at the age of 87, just nine days away from her 88th birthday, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

Eldora is survived by her four children, Napoleon Darby, Etta Juanita Darby-Reese (Shelton Reese), Sarah L. Darby-Scott (Dean Scott), and Jervis W. Darby; her sister, Mrs. Annie Kate Hawkins; her aunt, Mrs. Hattie Hall; her sister-in-law, Mrs. Mary C. Humphries, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Eldora was born in Opelika on February 23, 1932, to Etta Mae Henderson Robinson and Rupert Robinson. On March 31, 1956, she married J. W. Darby (now deceased), and the union yielded four children.

Eldora was a dedicated homemaker and devoted mother for most of her adult life. She also worked in various positions during her life, including factory work, and she later developed an interest in interior design.

Eldora enjoyed watching her favorite television shows and using her creative skills in her hobby of arts and crafts projects. She enjoyed the

outdoors, having grown up on her parents’ farm, and she loved gardening and working outside in the yard.

She enjoyed singing and did so often and frequently joyfully spoke of her young days as a choir member at her church.

Eldora was loved dearly by her children and family and was a positive ray of sunshine to everyone around her. She was a sweet lady and a blessing in the lives of those who knew and loved her, and she will be deeply missed by all of her relatives and friends.

A funeral service was scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on Friday, February 21, 2020, at the Union Grove Baptist Church in Marvyn, Alabama. Pastor Quency Dorsey officiated. In lieu of flowers and contributions, donations are asked to be made to The Eldora Robinson Darby Memorial Health Education Scholarship Fund by mail at Manatoa Health Foundation, ATTN: ERDMHE Scholarship Fund, P. O. Box 802865, Chicago IL 606802851.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mrs. Eldora R. Darby, visit www.petersonandwilliamsfuneralhome.com.

To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email us at: editor@opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003

Opelika

A13

Family & Religion

T

March 04, 2020

Thinking about reverence

here’s something about Jesus’ cleansing of the temple that is startling. It seems out of character with Him, but it’s not.

It’s simply out of character with the Jesus we have created—the One who accepts everybody and everything and makes no demands on anyone. Let me suggest if Jesus was really like that no one would have bothered to crucify Him. But they did.

Why was Jesus so upset that He fashioned a whip out of cords, turned over tables and benches and drove the money changers out of the temple? He was angry

Church Calendar Pepperell Baptist Church features traditional worship and song. Sunday School starts at 9:45 a.m. and there are two worship services, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday’s prayer service begins at 6 p.m. The church is located at 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika.

• March 4 - 6 - Mt. Zion AME Church, located at 5058 US Highway 29 N. in Opelika, is sponsoring a “Hymns in The Church - Appreciation and Variation Workshop” March 4 to 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. each evening.

The guest clinician is Dr. John W. Roberts, Ed.D., director of music at Lee Chapel AME Church in Auburn. The workshop is open to all choir members, musicians and congregation members.

For more information, contact Gwendolyn Jones, Mt. Zion’s music director, at 706-304-5890 or gjon53@aol.com.

• March 20 and 21 First Baptist Church of Opelika will be hosting a “Making Disciples of Oral Learners Workshop” on March 20 and 21 to reach people for Christ who are unable to read through art, drama or music. For more information or to register for the event, call Ben Cohen at 804-380-6979 or send email to benc@fbcopelika.com. The church is located at 301 S. 8th St. • April 30 - First Baptist Church of Opelika’s Men’s and Women’s Ministries are hosting Dr. David Jeremiah at Auburn Arena on April 30, starting at 7 p.m. Charles Billingsley will serve as the worship leader for this event. Tickets cost $15 each and can be purchased online at www. fbcopelika.com. For more information, call 334-745-5715.

that the temple—intended to be a place of prayer for the nations—had been turned into a place of price-gouging and merchandising.

The high and holy purposes of God had been prostituted into buying and selling.

In a word, it was the epitome of irreverence.

I suppose irreverence is always in vogue to some degree.

It is always easier to mock things than to build them up. Reverence is more difficult because it requires that you believe in something.

Reverence is to live with a consciousness of God’s infinite, eternal glory. It is

By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

Paul on His knees on the road to Damascus. It is Isaiah in the temple. It is John on the island of Patmos.

It is Moses taking off his sandals.

Reverence involves fear, but it is the good, healthy kind of fear. It is the kind of fear that keeps you alert as a driver. It is the awareness you exercise as a parent in taking care of your

children. It is the humility you show when you seek help from professionals about an electrical issue in your home because you recognize it is something you don’t know enough about to deal with on your own. It is the profound gratitude you feel toward your own parents. It is the awe, mystery and wonder you feel when we think about the size of the observable universe being 93 billion light years or that there are 37 trillion cells in the human body. It is the praise you feel when your child is born and later in life when they are born again. It is the joy you

feel when you look into their eyes.

Reverence is all that and yet more because it has to do with the Lord God Almighty.

Peter says we are to “live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear” (1:17).

This is not a cowering, cringing fear, it is a cleansing fear of people who have entered into covenant with God. Reverence is to holiness what sunlight is to plants. It goes right along with joy (v. 8), grace (v.

13) and love (v. 22).

It gives God glory and us dignity.

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen. com.

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Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003

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Verse of the Week “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.”

2 Chronicles 16:9

Church Directory APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 HIghland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D 334-758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta 334-742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy 334-749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. 334-749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. 334-745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy 334-749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B 706-4421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. 334-444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave 334-742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. 334-745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd 334-745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. 334-745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. 334-745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. 334-742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr 334-749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. 334-887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika 314 S. 9th St. 334-745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. 334-745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact

Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608

Opelika 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 COMMUNITY OUTREACH Changing Hearts of Desitny Ministry 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr.,

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist

709 Avenue E 334-741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. 334-703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue 334-742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. 334-749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. 334-363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. 334-745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 - 334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy 334-745-5340 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd 334-749-2773 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. 334-745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd 334-741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. 334-821-7238 CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. 334-749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy 334-742-9721 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. 334-745-6015 CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd 334-749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place 334-749-6432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court 334-745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene

1500 Bruce Ave. 334-749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. 334-745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. 334-826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. 334-742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A 334-745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 334-745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 334-749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. 334-745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. 334-745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy 334-745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 334-741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. 334-745-3421 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. 334-749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. 334-749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd 334-749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 334-745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. 334-745-0832

Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 PRESBYTERIAN Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889

Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd 334-745-2247 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. 334-737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. 334-745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy 334-749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy 334-707-3922 Family Life Christian Center 601 S. 7th St. 334-741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. 334-749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd 334-749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. 334-745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. 334- 749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad 334-749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. 334-737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd 334-749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd 334-741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy 334-749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy 334-741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 334-741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy 334-737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy 334-745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy 334-745-7770

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pelika Observer O

A14 March 04, 2020 Poppy Seed Chicken Linda Warren and Joan Kelley 1 bag boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins, cooked 1 can mushroom soup 16 oz. container sour cream 1 small can sliced mushrooms 3 Tbsp. poppy seeds Ritz crackers 1 stick butter Sliced almonds Cut cooked chicken into bite sized pieces.

Add soup, sour cream and mushrooms.

Place into a greased 2 quart baking dish.

In a second bowl,

crumble Ritz crackers. Then add the poppy seeds and butter and mix.

Place the cracker mixture on top the chicken mixture and top with the sliced almonds.

Bake uncovered at 350 for 35 minutes.

This recipe serves six people and can be served over rice.

Miniature Pecan Pie Muffins Carolyn Moore 1 cup light brown sugar ½ cup flour 2 eggs 2/3 cup melted butter

2/3 cup chopped pecans Melt butter. Add other ingredients and mix well with a spoon.

Bake at 350 in greased miniature muffin pans.

Bake for 15-17 minutes.

Makes 2 ½ - 3 dozen mini muffins.

Overnight Fruit Salad Anne Henderson 3 large eggs, beaten 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup white vinegar 2 Tbsp. butter 2 cups green grapes 2 cups miniature marshmallows

1 can (20 oz.) pineapple chunks, drained 1 can (15 oz.) mandarin oranges, drained 2 medium firm bananas, sliced 2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped ½ cup chopped pecans In a double boiler over medium heat, cook and stir eggs, sugar and vinegar until the mixture is thickened and reaches 160 degrees.

Remove from the heat; stir in butter. Cool.

In a large serving bowl, combine grapes, marshmallows, pineapple, oranges and bananas; add

cooled dressing and stir to coat.

Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

Just before serving, fold in whipped cream and pecans.

Serves 16.

Pretzel Jell-O Salad Becky Burkett 2½ cups pretzels, coarsely crushed 1/3 cup margarine Two 3oz. pkgs. strawberry Jell-O 8 oz. cream cheese 2 cups boiling water 1 cup sugar 1 large Cool Whip

3 Tbsp. sugar 2-10 oz. pkgs. frozen strawberries Coarsely crush pretzels and mix with margarine and 3 tablespoons sugar. Place mixture in a 9 x 13 dish and bake for 10 minutes at 350.

Cool completely.

Cream the cheese and blend in 1 cup sugar. Add Cool Whip and mix well.

Spread the cream cheese and Cool Whip mixture over cooled pretzels. Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water; add frozen strawberries and mix to break up the strawberries.

Chill until slightly thickened. Pour over the Cool Whip layer. Chill until set.

Community Calendar: Events around town

• March 12 - Railroad Investment Group Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m.

• April 9 - Thalama Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m.

• April 24 - Food Bank of East Alabama Ribbon Cutting • May 1 - Opelika Armory Ribbon Cutting

Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.”

• The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee.

The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided.

Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256307-1449.

Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Bap-

tist Church located at 201 S. 4th St. Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika.

• The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

• The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway.

For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at deborahowen@eamc.org.

• The fourth Monday of each month, a community grief support group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome.

For more information, call 826-1899 or 5020216.

• T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website.

Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture

crops and many more.

To view the full schedule, please visit www. aces.edu/anr/beginningfarms/webinars.php.

Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn.edu.

For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn.edu.

Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika SportsPlex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info, call Diane at 749-6320.

• The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required.

• The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m.

Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m.

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard.

The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 Alabama Highway 51.

• A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling

Support Opelika; join Opelika Main Street

By Ken Ward Special to the Opelika Observer To say the AuburnOpelika area is thriving is an understatement; new businesses, housing developments and industrial spaces seem to be opening up everywhere you look these days.

While we might take some of this growth for granted, it has taken decades of steady leadership from elected officials and community groups alike to get us to this place. When Opelika Main Street was

founded in 1987, downtown was not the place to go. Empty storefronts, dark streets and few public spaces were the norm.

Many would say that the only thing in downtown after 5 p.m. was the train!

Now look at downtown today: two regionally acclaimed breweries, a nationally recognized distillery, multiple award-winning restaurants, a variety of different retail shops, beautiful public parks, landscaped roads and a growing base of loft apartments now call this area home.

Most any city with a

Main Street program will say the same thing: Main Street Works! Through our four point approach: design, economic vitality, organization and promotion, we have helped Opelika city and community leaders lead a cohesive (and successful) downtown revitalization effort.

The progress made in downtown has been recognized and emulated by countless communities across the nation, hoping to get the same results Opelika has seen.

We cannot take these accomplishments for granted,

given that Opelika Main Street is a nonprofit organization we rely on the support of Opelika businesses, residents, friends and visitors to keep up this progress.

Consider becoming a member of Opelika Main Street today and help us ensure downtown stays successful and prosperous for years to come. More information can be found at opelikamainstreet.org or by calling 334-744-0466.

Find more information about Opelika Main Street and downtown by visiting opelikamainstreet.org.

the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved.

The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School.

For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-5189122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook.

• East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m.

Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika.

Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

• Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika.

• The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes.

The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 850-212-5364. or cheri. paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334528-1076 for more information.

Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

Upcoming Events • Ongoing - GRIEFSHARE, a 13-week course, is for people grieving the death of a family member or friend.

The first session will take place on March 1 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church.

Individuals may start attending group meetings at any point during the session. GriefShare uses the Bible, an easy-to- follow workbook, video of trained Christian pastors and counselors and support from fellow members.

Contact Melinda Jackson at 334-745-2632.

• March 17 - The Lee County Low Vision Support Group will have their March meeting on March 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the

East Alabama Medical Educational Center across from the hospital on Pepperell Parkway. Local counselor Jenny Filush-Glaze will be the featured speaker. This group meets monthly and gains valuable resources on how the cope physically and emotionally with low vision.

• March 28 - 30 - The Friends of the Auburn Public Library will hold their ‘Big Book Sale’ at the library on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 29 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and March 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This sale is open to the public, and hundreds of gently used books will be available for purchase, including bestsellers, classics, fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books.

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A15 March 04, 2020

IT HAS ARRIVED! PICK UP YOUR COPY IN OUR OFFICE TODAY

Remembering Beauregard and Smiths Station

March 2020

Remembering Beauregard and Smiths Station | 1

“Lee County Strong: Remembering Beauregard and Smiths Station” is a special publication by the Observer. This 140-page magazine is our way of honoring those who we lost and letting those who survived know that we have not forgotten them. Proceeds from this magazine will be used to assist with the recovery efforts that are still ongoing.

The magazine costs $5.99 plus tax and can be purchased at various locations around town including Bubba’s Medicine Shoppe and at the Observer office. Pick up your copy today and help us support our community. People can also order online and by completing and mailing in the order form on page B3 of the newspaper. Our office is in the back of the Collaboration Station, which is located at 216 S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika.

A16 March 04, 2020

pelika Observer O

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

Opelika Schools ports &S Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

School Board Meeting Schedule • March 10 - Lee County School Board Meeting - 2410 Society Hill Road • March 26 - Opelika City School Board Meeting - 300 Simmons St.

Opelika City School board recognizes OHS senior National Merit finalist Rebecca Wilson

By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika girls fall short in quest for state title

H

azel Green High School’s girls basketball team (34-2) ended Opelika (277) season in the semifinals 46-35 at Birmingham Legacy Arena.

This was the thirdstraight trip to the State Finals for Opelika under Coach Devin Booth. The Lady Bulldogs have lost to Hazel Green two out of the last three years. The Trojans beat McAdory 4034 in the finals to capture their third-straight 6A State Championship.

Several factors contributed to the loss. The Lady Bulldogs committed 17 turnovers, were outrebounded 34-20, shot 31.7% from floor and was 3-of-19 from the free throw line. Despite these numbers, the Trojans hit 11 free throws in the fourth quarter to seal the win.

OHS rallied in the fourth quarter, closing the gap to 39-35 with 1:14 left in the game, but had to foul on each defensive possession.

Hazel Green hit six free throws in the final minute to win and advance to the finals. Opelika was led

by Kaitlyn Bryant’s nine points, two steals and three assists, Haley Sanders contributed with seven points and Ananda Hughley notched five points and six rebounds.

Congratulations to the

2019-20 Opelika Lady Bulldog basketball team!

I am not sure fans understand how far Opelika Girls Basketball improved since Devin Booth took over as coach. Coach Booth has consistently won games, area regular season and tournament titles and finished in the Final 56 three-straight seasons. Booth earned a state championship at Samson prior to becoming OHS’s head coach. She also serves as the assistant athletic director for female athletics in addition to her head basketball duties.

SOCCER The Opelika Soccer teams missed several matches over the last week because of inclement weather. However, they were able to play a couple of games.

GIRLS The Lady Bulldog Soccer team won a pair of easy matches, 8-1 over Troup County and 10-0 over Beauregard last week.

OHS jumped on Troup in Calloway early, scoring five goals in the first period on their way to an 8-0 win. Scoring goals were Amiya Brown, who netted four goals, Erica Mathews, who scored two, while Ashley Hilyer and Aimee Alcantara added one goal See Sports, page B4

During last Tuesday’s school board meeting, the Opelika City School board recognized Rebecca Wilson, a senior at Opelika High School, for her placement as a National Merit Finalist. According to the National Merit website, selected finalists will be Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

See OCS, page B4

Southeast’s first STEM preschool, children’s science center opening in Auburn

By Morgan Bryce Editor "Auburn Day School" and "AO Discover: AuburnOpelika Children's Hands-On Science Center" are slated to open later this year from a “centrally located” spot in Auburn.

Mississippi native and longtime educator Katie Murrah is the mastermind behind both of these endeavors, which she said are targeted for youth in the Auburn-Opelika and surrounding areas.

"We want to be a hub of STEM education for East Alabama and beyond.

So, we want to be a resource for anyone in the community that wants to help us further our or their goal of educating both children and families," Murrah said.

'The first of its kind in the Southeast' Before moving to the area from Virginia in 2016, Murrah previously worked at two schools for gifted children. That experience, paired with being the mother of a young child and noticing the AuburnOpelika area's lack of a STEM school catered to preschoolers, helped her

formulate the idea for the Auburn Day School.

While the school and discovery center are separate entities, they will remain tightly connected within the same structure. With the discovery center being built out on the right-hand portion of the structure, teachers and students from the school will be able to walk to the discovery center

and back with ease for class assignments and projects.

Murrah explained that the curriculum will be conceptbased in nature, and teach children 12 months to five years old to push themselves, explore and interact within the realms of art, language, math, science and technology.

"Early STEM See STEM, page B4

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B2 March 04, 2020

Kroger donates $10,000 to Tuskegee University Food Pantry Special to the Opelika Observer In honor of Black History Month, Kroger has donated $10,000 to the Tuskegee University Tiger’s Den Food Pantry.

According to the #RealCollege survey conducted by Temple University’s Hope Center for College, Community and Justice, 39% of student respondents reported being food insecure in the prior 30 days.

“This is an alarming statistic,” said Felix

Turner, manager of corporate affairs for Kroger’s Atlanta Division, which includes Georgia, eastern Alabama and South Carolina. “We are honored to support our HBCUs and the work they are doing to alleviate hunger through campus food pantries.”

The #RealCollege survey also found that rates of food insecurity among students ranged from 42 to 56% at twoyear institutions and from 33 to 42% at fouryear institutions, with an overall weighted

average of 43%.

“This donation is a testament to Kroger’s commitment to our Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative – and our vision to end hunger in the places we call home by 2025,” Turner said. “Zero Hunger | Zero Waste is designed to address a fundamental absurdity in the nation’s food system: 40% of the food produced in the U.S. is thrown away, yet one in nine Americans, including college students, struggles with hunger.”

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

Opelika softball falls 11-4 to Beulah last Friday

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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B3 March 04, 2020

Being Promise Keepers for Our Children

Beth Pinyerd

H

appy March with the hope of pretty weather, blue skies, winds, rainbows and the promise of outdoor fun and play for children and families! We can reflect on the fun of pretend play, sharing secrets with our best friend pals as well as making promises to do something for our friends.

This is usually done with a “pinky promise” among children to represent and symbolize an action of promise! Even children like to pinky promise their parents and grandparents and this is what these article tips are about!

We live in such a busy world. To be honest, sometimes as parents and grandparents, we

jump to anything to love on our children!

We have good intentions when we make a promise to a child, but sometimes other things happen such as sickness, emergencies or interruptions which cannot be prevented.

In the classroom, we early childhood teachers may promise our young students a special fun activity if they work as a team by picking up toys, following through with instructions, displaying good behavior, etc.

I’d like to insert an intergenerational truth at this point. This is a lesson we can learn from “The Greater Generation.”

When that generation makes a promise, it is their word and their

bond to follow through.

I say this because many years ago during my teacher’s training and internship in the early childhood classroom, I had an older teacher who mentored me and drove in the truth of when I made a promise to my younger students, to be sure to carry through with the promise when the students had earned this privilege. She taught me the value of being consistent in what we say and do with young lives. This teaches trust, commitment and respect which leads a child to feel secure and have faith in what we say and will do. A foundation of trust like this encourages confidence in a child to comprehend and understand what commitment means later on.

As a parent, we can be a model of keeping a promise. We must take the time to think through and plan before making a promise. Be careful in what you promise to your child.

“Can I really carry through with this promise for my child?” Taking the time to explain to your child that “we will see when the time comes or I just cannot commit

or make that promise to you at this time” is better than promising your children something then not being able to follow through.

You will be pleasantly surprised that even the youngest of children will understand an explanation. This kind of parent-child relationship models integrity, and too, it lets your child know that they are celebrated and that they can trust you.

Breaking promises on a consistent basis teaches children not to trust us and causes them hurt and disappointment. If we break even the smallest promises, children will mistrust us for the big promises.

If we parents have to break a promise, take time, which spells love to your child, to explain why you could not keep your promise. This is a teaching lesson and apology for your child which again focuses on the relationship between parent and child. Ask your child to forgive you when you break a promise.

This models a life lesson for them to ask forgiveness of others when they may have hurt someone’s feel-

of parenting. Proverbs

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Opelika High School football players participate ‘Dr. Seuss Reading Week’ at Trinity Methodist Church Monday

Lee County Strong is a magazine being published by the Opelika Observer. This special publication is dedicated to honoring the victims and survivors of the March 3, 2019 tornadoes that claimed 23 lives.

Copeis are now available at our office which is located at 216 S. 8th Street in downtown Opelika or you may complete and return this order form by mailing it to: 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801.

Online ordering is also available on the Observerʼs website, www.opelikaobserver.com Proceeds from this publication will be used to help the recovery efforts in Beauregard and Smiths Station.

Name:__________________________________ Address:_________________________________ Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer Opelika High School student-athletes Kevin Lilly and Grant Morgan read Dr. Seuss books to classes of students at Trinity United Methodist Church on Monday for “Dr. Seuss Reading Week.”

______________________________________ _____Pickup in office - $6.53 (includes tax) _____Mail delivery - $10 (includes tax, shipping & handling) _____Check ______Credit Card ______Exp. _____CCV CC #________________________________

pelika O Observer

B4 March 04, 2020

Tigers’ Senior Day effort falls just short to Tennessee, losing 56-55

Photos by Shanna Lockwood/ Auburn Athletics Photographer Auburn University’s women’s basketball team turned in a strong showing against Tennessee in its final regular season home game on Sunday against Tennessee, falling 5655. Daisa Alexander, the Tigers’ lone senior, was also recognized for her efforts and scored 15 points in the losing effort.

The Tigers play Vanderbilt in the opening round of the SEC tournament on Wednesday.

Sports, from B1 apiece. Molly Randolph recorded two assists while Abby Noon, Kaitlyn Goodman, Scarlet Posadas and Erica Mathews recorded one assist apiece.

Opelika blanked Beauregard 10-0. OHS was led by Goodman’s four goals and three from Erica Mathews. Noon, Hilyer and Garcia scored one goal apiece. Goodman added four assist while Raveen Tolbert, Amiya Brown and Ashley Hilyer added assists.

The shutouts were courtesy of goal keepers Emily Lux and Phoebe Darcey.

BOYS OHS won two out of three matches last week and weekend. The Bulldogs beat Troup County (5-0) and Beauregard (100) while Smiths Station gave Opelika their first

STEM, from B1 experiences help them work collaboratively and think about the world differently and learn how to be investigators. What we want to help emphasize here is helping students with that persistence so that when they encounter an obstacle, they don't immediately seek the answer from a teacher or parent and know that delving into the problem and finding the solution is a natural part of the learning process," Murrah said.

The school will be open from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, and parents will be able to book their child through the school's reservation system at a cost of $35 per day. Murrah said they plan to host weeklong camps during summer break and the holiday season at the school for preschoolers as well as elementary and middle school students.

loss, 3-2.

The Bulldogs beat Troup County 5-0 behind goals from Marshall Meyers, Charlie Garcia, Tyklell Jones, Ethan Souphanthong and Caleb Rujuana. Garcia added two assists while Jones, Meyers and Alberto Cordova added one assist apiece. Miller Isaacson held Troup County scoreless as keeper.

Several Bulldogs soccer players scored goals in the 10-0 win over Beauregard.

Tyklell Jones scored three goals; Jonathan Blanco netted two goals and added an assist; Said Rujana netted two goals; Landon Faison and Charlie Garcia scored a goal and recorded assists; Harold Torres (one goal), Walker Norell (one assist); Marshall Meyers scored a goal and recorded an assist and Miller Isaacson recorded his second straight shutout at keeper.

Smiths Station hung on 3-2 to hand Opelika its While no opening date has been set, Murrah encourages interested parents to join the school's mailing list by sending an email to director@ auburndayschool.org.

The school is projected to be opened sometime this spring or summer. For more information or updates, like and follow "Auburn Day School" or visit www.auburndayschool.org.

'Preparing children for the future' The opening and details behind the AO Discover: AuburnOpelika Children's Hands-On Science Center was covered in the Observer's Oct. 23, 2019 issue.

Once opened, the nonprofit science center will contain a myriad of interactive activities and exhibits for parents and children of all ages.

“We’re going to offer something for everyone in the family,” Murrah said in a previous interview.

“We’re going to have self-guided tours, field trip experiences, com-

first loss. Charlie Garcia scored in the first half and Landon Faison recorded a goal on a throw in from Meyers.

Both teams have a busy week ahead.

OPELIKA INVITATIONAL TRACK MEET The Opelika High Track and Field Program hosted the “Opelika Invitational” on the Sam Mason Track at OHS last weekend.

Twenty-four teams, including 12 girls teams and 12 boys teams, made up the track meet competition. OHS won the girls meet with 125 points, six more than second-place LaFayette. Opelika’s boys dominated with 243.50 points, 150.50 better than second-place Oxford High School.

The following are topthree finishers for OHS; 100-meters - Jarell Stinson (1st), Dalen Torbert (2nd) 200-meters - Jarell

Stinson, Dalen Tolbert and Omar Holloway finished 1st, 2nd and 3rd 3,200-meters - Charles Brewer (3rd) 110-meter hurdles Justin Shorter (2nd) 300-meter hurdlesWatta (1st) High Jump - LeDamien Rowell (1st) and O’Narrion Tolbert (2nd) Long Jump - Eric Watts (1st) and Rowell (3rd) Pole Vault - Benjamin Weaver Royal (1st) Javelin- Stinson (1st) and Brody Davis (3rd) Shot Put - Ja’Kai Stephens (2nd) I have no individual results from the girls division.

BASEBALL Opelika’s baseball team is 6-5 overall after last week’s games.

OHS v. Central OHS beat Central 11-9 at Bulldog Park behind 10 hits. Kory McCoy, Andrew Parr and Brayden Thomas recorded two hits

munity days; STEM, coding and robotics camps for kids, hands on explorations and so much more.”

With construction permits in hand, construction is slated to begin soon on both the discovery center and school. Murrah said they will continue promoting the science center through free pop-up events around the area, with one scheduled to take place at Opelika's Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library on March 28.

Murrah said they also plan to partner with area schools and businesses as well as local educational institutions like Auburn University and Southern Union State Community College for events and internship opportunities.

In addition to preparing children for the beginnings of their education, Murrah said another goal of the science center is to help cultivate a love of learning within children for the STEM world and spur them

apiece. Latrell Gullatte, Jackson Harris, Brooks Bryan (home run) and Paul Goodman recorded hits.

OHS v. Spanish Fort The Spanish Fort Toros outscored Opelika 12-11 last Friday afternoon to earn the win. Spanish Fort recored 10 hits to Opelika’s 12 hits but still managed to win the game. Gullatte, Harris, Bryan, Parr and Rhodes recorded multiple hits for the Bulldogs.

OHS v. Goshen The Bulldogs defeated Goshen 9-2 behind a good pitching performance by Jackson Harris who went five innings, allowing one run and a hit for the win.

Caleb Chisum and Kydylan Ligon pitched the final two innings. Gullatte and Thomas continued to be hot at the plate, recording two hits apiece. Parr, Bryan, Chisum, Ligon and Speakman recoded hits.

on to pursue one of the many expected careers that are and will be available within those fields.

"Because of the shortage of people needed for STEM jobs, one of our goals here at AO Discover is to help with workforce development in Alabama. We're excited to facilitate these opportunities for children that will serve as foundational experiences in science, technology and mathematics," Murrah said. "Hopefully, they will build on these foundations and be successful in the future."

Donations, Murrah said, will be key in helping realize this dream. They will be reliant on future funding for both facility and programming expansion.

More information on events and updates regarding the science center's opening can be found liking and following the science center's Facebook page or by visiting www.aodiscover.org.

OHS v. Ariton Ariton beat OHS 4-3 behind solid pitching performance by Will Harris. The senior allowed six hits and two runs over five innings to earn the win. Parr was the offensive leader with two hits, Gullatte, Thomas, Harris and Duke recorded hits.

OHS v. Bibb County OHS beat Bibb County 5-4 behind the pitching of Rhodes. The senior lasted five innings, allowing two runs on three hits while striking out four batters.

Bryan hit a grand slam and added two hits to lead at the plate. Harris managed two while Goodman added one.

Opelika played at Auburn High Tuesday night, the results were not complete at print time.

D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.

OCS, from B1 notified if they’ve received a scholarship between the months of March and June.

The board also discussed and approved revisions to the Opelika Middle and High schools’ cheerleading constitutions including having participants abide by “all rules set forth by the AHSAA and the Opelika Athletic Handbook.”

There will be a new freshman team consisting of approximately 20 members, and the varsity squad will include grades 10 through 12 with up to 24 members.

In other business, the board: -approved personal recommendations -approved pay increases from $25/hour to $30/ hour for certified

teachers providing tutoring and other teaching assignments and $12.25/hour to $15/hour for clerical and noncertified instructional services through contract services -approved the consideration of a dual enrollment agreement between Opelika City Schools and Auburn University -approved the consideration of the FY ‘20 budget amendment No. 1 -approved an out-of-state field trip for 10th to 12th grade OHS students to Orlando, Florida for a culinary competition and -discussed the newly introduced Alabama Literacy Act. The next board meeting is scheduled for March 26.

Their meetings are held at OCS Board of Education facility located at 300 Simmons St.

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Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, March 04, 2020

Inside the Statehouse Chancellor Finis St. John and the University of Alabama system

O

ur 1901 Alabama Constitution has been rightfully criticized as being archaic. However, it was simply a reflection of the times. The authors and crafters of our document were well-educated gentry. Therefore, they appreciated and realized the importance of having a prized capstone university.

The University of Alabama was founded in 1831 and had become one of the premier southern universities by the time of the Civil War. It was not by coincidence that one of the primary missions of the northern Union invasion of

By Steve Flowers the South was to burn and raze the University of Alabama campus. They knew the importance of a state having an exemplary institution of higher learning.

Therefore, when the authors of our Constitution crafted their document, they chose to place the University of Ala-

bama above politics and keep the institution in the auspices of high-minded individuals who would be above reproach and petty politics.

The Constitution created a self-appointing, perpetual Board of Trustees to guide and govern the university. This concept has played out magnificently throughout the years. The Board of Trustees has been made up of men and women over the past two centuries who have been leaders of our state. These board members have not only been the most distinguished, erudite people in See Flowers, page B9

Lee County election results

By Observer Staff Staff Reporter Note:These results have not been certified as of press time. They are unofficial.

During the primary elections held yesterday in Lee County, Republican Doug Cannon received 53.81% of the vote against Butch Brock’s 46.19% to acquire the nominee vote for Lee County Commission’s First District Seat.

Cannon will advance to the general election this upcoming November against Democrat Napolean Stringer.

Cannon has called the Auburn-Opelika area home for more than 55 years, which served as the main inspiration for his campaign, to give back to the community.

Lee County also voted against the proposed statewide Amendment #1. The amendment proposed

a name change of the State Board of Education to the “Alabama Commission on Elementary and Secondary Education.”

The amendment also proposed commission members to be appointed for up to two terms by the Gov. Kay Ivey and approved by the Senate rather than elected by the public.

Lee County voted No 72.88% and Yes 27.12% Alabama was one of 14 states participating in Super Tuesday where the Republican and Democratic nominees are chosen for November’s General Elections.

The Lee County results are as follows: Candidate of the Democratic Party for President of the United States: Joseph Biden 58.81% Bernie Sanders 20.82% Elizabeth Warren 9.72%

Michael Bloomberg .54% Candidate for the Republican Party for President of the United States: Donald J. Trump 95.01% United States Senator Repbulican Tommy Tuberville 50.57% Jeff Sessions 27.45% Bradley Byrne 13.79% Roy Moore 5.42% Ruth Nelson 1.02% Arnold Mooney .93% Stanley Adair .83% Sessions and Tuberville will have a runoff on March 31.

Rep. President Public Service Commission Twinkle Cavanaugh 69.69% Robin Litaker 30.31% Follow the Observer as we will post official results for both Lee County and the state as soon as results have been certified.

City seeks input on Consolidated Community Development Plan Smiths Station City Council approves Special to the Opelika Observer

The City of Opelika’s Planning Department is asking for the community’s assistance in constructing a plan for Opelika’s community development. Every five years, the city partners with the community to develop a strategic consolidated plan.

The plan defines strategies to address housing, community development needs and current market conditions in order for the city of Opelika to make informed decisions on allocating HUD Community Development Block

Grant (CDBG) funding.

This plan will outline how the city will invest more than $1,250,000 in federal CDBG funds to strengthen the community and enhance neighborhoods. Community engagement is critical to the process, as it allows residents and partners to play a meaningful role in establishing priorities and creating effective solutions to pressing needs in their communities.

The “Your City, Your Voice” national campaign focuses on getting residents and stakeholders to complete the survey or attend a community engagement session

to provide input to help the City define housing and community needs for the next five years. The survey is available in both English and Spanish.

To participate in the survey, visit https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/ Opelika_YOURCITYYOURVOICE2020.

City officials said they hope to receive helpful feedback from the community and will continue to keep our residents and stakeholders updated on the development. For more information, contact Lisa Thrift at 334-7055155 or lthrift@opelikaal.gov.

traffic light maintenance contract

By Morgan Bryce Editor The Smiths Station City Council voted unanimously to enter into a 30-day contract with Matt Hopkin to handle routine traffic light maintenance or repairs during their regular meeting last Tuesday.

According to Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland, this 30-day contract can be renewed for a full year and on an annual basis if Hopkin’s work is

NOW OPEN

Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer satisfactory. Based on the contract, he is required to work a miminum of

one hour and be comSee Council, page B10

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

pelika Observer O

B8 March 04, 2020

Opelika City Council recognizes Morris Avenue Intermediate School’s award

By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter During Tuesday’s Opelika City Council meeting, Mayor Gary Fuller recognized Morris Avenue Intermediate School as an “Alabama Green Ribbon Schools Award” winner.

According to the Alabama State Department of Education, “(the) award recognizes innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and promote environmental and sustainability education.” With the help of Coach Chris Rhodes, the school was

I

chosen a winner for their “fruit and fitness trail.”

The council also recognized Billy Edwards with the Keep Opelika Beautiful organization as “Volunteer of the Year.”

Edwards resides in Ward 1, but was praised for “consistently beautifying the entire city.”

The council heard from a concerned citizen in regards to housing property in Opelika. He requested more time from the council before the demolition of the property.

The council is still “going through with normal procedures until proof of adjusted changes (in title

and contract).”

In other business, the council also: -approved a request for the annual “Going Blue for Autism” at Courthouse Square on April 2 -approved multiple requests from Main Street

for “Taste of the Town” on April 28 as well as a Touch-A-Truck and Burger Wars on May 30 -awarded a bid for a new fire training facility -approved expense reports from various departments

-approved to designate city personnel property as surplus and authorize disposal -approved the purchase of 624 Toter 96 EVR II Carts -approved a grant application with FEMA

for local share of a new ladder truck -approved a grant application with FEMA to replace the air compressor cascade system -approved a grant application with ADECA for the Youth Incarceration Prevention Program -approved the authorization for the expenditure of public funds for census 2020 community events -approved the authorization of a local bill for annexation into Opelika’s corporate limits -approved the annual appropriation contract See Council, page B9

Tales from Citizen’s Police Academies

n my journalism career, I have been fortunate to write about two citizen’s police academies. One was in Albany, Georgia, where I attended a CPA class in 2000. In 1999, I graduated from a similar class in Auburn. Enrollment is now underway for such a class in Opelika. I recommend it highly and expect that from this piece you will understand the education and great fun you can have there.

We were in a routine class, then all of a sudden, a man in a mask rushed up to the instructor and grabbed his wallet. Then the thief left; all this was done in 10 seconds. The instructor asked us to describe the criminal.

Classmates varied on what they saw — the man was in a blue track suit, or was it green or even yellow; he was wearing jeans or was it sweat pants, did he carry a gun or knife? I couldn’t stop from saying,

“who was that masked man?”

Then, the man who acted as the thief came back and gave the instructor his wallet. We were all ashamed that only two sharp students got the details right. (Probably they were future law enforcement officers!) This “incident” taught students how difficult it is to describe an assailant, especially under duress. But that is a prime skill required of officers, almost every day.

And they get the details correct a high chunk of the time.

Applicants for OPD’s next academy can contact Lieutenant Ben Blackburn at OPDjobs@opelika-al. gov to request an application. Please include “CPA” in the email subject line. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on March 9. For more information, call Blackburn at 334-705-5258.

Among topics are: “Patrol Procedures,” “Canine,”

“Traffic,” “SWAT” and Firearms Training.”

When I attended the CPA 21 years ago in Auburn, we used the department’s computer simulator. It featured scenarios police men and women regularly face. When I was using the simulator, I thought I saw a criminal carrying a bomb so I shot him. Unfortunately, it was a mother and her daughter who I “killed.”

The instructor and my classmates decided maybe I am better at shooting the breeze than popping people, either real or imagined.

Why do departments organize and operate Citizen’s Police Academies?

The first justification is that it is likely to reduce crime as graduates tell their relatives and friends that the police are not their enemy. The second reason academies exist is to show the challenges police have as they pursue justice.

Based on my experiences with the Albany (Georgia) and Auburn police departments, two things do not motivate police to open academies.

One is propaganda: I see no tendency to hide past issues, or to skip controversies they had. Second, the academies are not usually about cops’ “war stories,” except perhaps if asked about that by class members.

“When I was young and we got caught pinching apples, we got a smack from the local policeman,” said Simon Cowell, a judge on America’s Got Talent. “Today if that happened he would be sued. There is a tendency to punish the victim, not the criminal. If someone broke into my house or my mum’s house, I worry that the burglar has more rights than me.”

The idea for a Citizen’s Police Academy started in 1977 in Cowell’s birthplace, England.

Citizens signed up for a night-time police school; they desired to learn about police functions, police operations, and the organization of the police system in England.

There was an immediate good response from the public. Academy leaders were soon overwhelmed with applicants wanting to know about their own police department. Due to the wide success, the project became a permanent fixture of an ongoing police public relations program.

This concept was first adopted in the United States by the Orlando, Florida police department, in 1985. Its success was astounding, and a new law enforcement tool hit the scene. Word spread and led to Citizen’s Police Academes in many, many U.S. communities no matter the size.

When I lived in Panama in 1988 and 1989, the concept of a once-a-year

baseball season was unheard of. The weather was usually great, though in rainy season we were pounded.

During the two or three baseball seasons I was there, a team called “The Cop Shop” hadmixed success. Calling the team “Cop Shop” was unpopular with some military police.

Most uniformed cops liked the term, and the team. Now, 30-plus years later in Opelika, there are diligent and careful police, or “Cops.” They will open their station doors gladly to show what their jobs are really like. I urge you to take advantage of the Citizen’s Police Academy by signing up today.

Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the last 23 years. An award-winning journalist, he has master’s degress in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.

Occupational tax bill goes to Gov. Kay Ivey Special to the Opelika Observer Last week, the Alabama Senate passed House Bill 147 which changes the process required to implement the occupational tax. The bill sponsored

by Rep. Chris Sells (R-

Greenville), was passed in the Senate by a vote of 27-7.

House Bill 147 would ensure protection for workers who live outside of the municipality they work and do not have a voice to be in support of, or to reject the occupa-

tional tax set forth by local government officials.

This bill requires that the legislature vote on the occupational tax rather than local leaders having the power to implement the tax on their own.

Sen. Clyde Chambliss (R-Prattville) carried the

bill on the Senate floor and praised its passage.

“As was brought in the debate today, representation is fundamental in our country. Lack of representation is what moved our country toward independence. Being subject to an occupational

tax without representation is no different. Passage of HB 147 simply gives us that representation,” Senator Chambliss said.

Sen. Andrew Jones (R-Centre) expressed his support for the legislation.

“Today is a great day for hard working Alabam-

ians. The occupational tax is harmful to economic development. I was proud to be one of the Senators who worked to raise this issue and bring it to the forefront and I think that our state will benefit as a whole thanks to its pasSee Tax, page B9

pelika O Observer

B9 March 04, 2020

Spotlight on HB103/SB56: How Montgomery views medical privacy Special to the Opelika Observer Legislation being pushed in both the House and Senate would create a mandate for healthcare providers to put everyone’s personal medical information into a statewide information database called ImmPRINT. Alabama’s Department of Public Health is behind the push for this mandated reporting system, but public outcry over privacy concerns has halted the bills’ advancement.

Last Wednesday, Sherrie Saunders (representative of Alabama Medical Freedom Alliance), attended a public

Flowers, from B7 Alabama, but also those known for their integrity and humility.

Thus it was a unique and yet brilliant decision to choose someone from the Board of Trustees to head the University of Alabama System.

In July 2018, Finis E. St. John IV, who had served 17 years on the University System Board, was named chancellor.

He became the chief executive officer of what would be comparable to a Fortune 500 company.

The University of Alabama System is not only Alabama’s largest higher educa-

hearing before the House Health Committee. She explained how government-monitored databases, like the one this bill would create, have negatively affected her own life in many ways.

Saunders said that she was recently denied a life insurance policy when the insurer refused her coverage due to information contained in her private medical records.

“When you’re sharing medical information with other agencies or associations outside of what your own medical provider can view, it affects families in areas they never would have expected,” she said.

Several members of

the public also spoke out about the violation of privacy this bill would create, because there is no allowance for a patient to opt-out of their information being entered in the database and there is no disclosure to patients about who has access to the information.

Alabama Outreach Collaborative, a grassroots movement dedicated to empowering communities through fair legislation, is focusing on the unintended implications of big data collection by government monitoring programs.

In their latest feature titled “Data Collection Facilitates Discrimination,” Outreach Direc-

tor Helen Underwood reveals how data-sharing programs increase socioeconomic disparity.

“The problem with big-data collection by the government is that we have no way to consent to it because they’re the government, and there are very little laws that actually protect the public’s rights. Any restrictions we have in place to limit the reach of private-sector data collection, like HIPAA, do not apply to public authorities like the Department of Health. There is a growing mistrust of America’s healthcare industry right now, and hijacking Alabamians’ medical information through unconstitutional

public policy is not the way to get back in our good graces,” Underwood said.

It is not just the public raising their voices in collective concern over these bills, either. Members of the Republican Executive Committee drafted a resolution that opposes legislation like HB103/SB56 on the grounds of government overreach and privacy concerns.

A vote on the issue was set to take place last Saturday at the committee’s semi-annual conference, but a mix-up in the order of parliamentary procedures resulted in an early adjournment, thwarting any open discussion among the party.

As of today, Sen. Tim Melson has said that he no longer is pursuing SB56 and that the bill “is dead as far as he’s concerned.”

Its House counterpart, HB103, is still being carried by Rep. April Weaver, who sits on the House Health Committee and is married to one of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama’s top executives.

Alabama Outreach has submitted an amendment to legislators that would add opt-out and disclosure language to the bill.

“Informed consent is the building block of good medicine and fair democracy. Without it, our officials are just dictators,” Weaver said.

tion enterprise, it is Alabama’s largest employer with more than 45,000 employees and an economic impact of over $10 billion per year.

The Alabama System is comprised of three dynamic institutions: The University of Alabama main campus in Tuscaloosa, University of Alabama at Huntsville and the University of Alabama at Birmingham which comprises our world renowned UAB health system.

UAB alone is by far Jefferson County’s largest employer and economic engine, it is indeed the state of Alabama’s No. 1 employer and economic ingredient.

It would have been an easy choice for the board to choose to bring in an aca-

demician from an Ivy League school to head this prestigious institution. The choice of St. John reflects the collective wisdom of this austere body. Why not select someone who has been an integral part of the governing and spearheading of the unparalleled growth of our state’s crown jewel and most significant financial and educational and research institution.

St. John IV, better known by colleagues and older acquaintances as “Fess,” is widely respected. He knows Alabama, its history and its attributes. His family settled in Alabama in 1838 and have been leaders in our state throughout the state’s history.

Chancellor St. John was the most outstanding leader on campus during his four years at the University of Alabama in the 1970s.

He graduated magna cum laude and was inducted into Phi Betta Kappa and ODK and graduated with honors.

After his undergraduate process at the Capstone, he was accepted and proceeded to the prestigious University of Virginia School of Law. He graduated at the top of his law school class in 1982 and clerked for a federal judge for a while before coming home to Cullman to join his family law firm.

The St. John law firm in Cullman that Fess joined 36 years ago is one of

Alabama’s oldest law firms. The St. John family has a long and distinguished history of service.

His father, grandfather and great grandfather served in the Alabama Legislature.

His mother was the first female attorney in Cullman, and his great great grandfather, who arrived in Cullman in 1838 and was soon elected to the Alabama General Assembly, was instrumental in creating our state’s public education system.

Chancellor St. John understands and knows the history

and potential of our state in a very unique way.

This, coupled with his brilliant intellect, makes him ideal.

If anyone was ever born to lead the current University of Alabama System, it is Finus “Fess” St. John, IV. See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

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Council, from B8 for Boys and Girls clubs FY2020

Tax, from B8

-approved a special appropriation to the American Cancer Society for the Relay for Life on April 17 and -approved a purchase for the public works

sage. I feel like Alabamians are better off now that the legislature has put accountability in place for these taxes,” Senator

department.

The Opelika City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, with a work session starting between 6 to 6:45 p.m. followed by the

Jones said.

The legislation will not affect any municipality that enacted an occupational tax within their

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

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regular meeting at 7 p.m.

Their meetings are held in the new Municipal Court facility, which is located at 501 S. 10th St. For more information, visit www.opelika-al.gov.

jurisdiction before Feb 1.

With its passage in the Senate, House Bill 147 will now go to the governor for a signature.

Bill Baxley, who served as Alabama’s Attorney General and Lt. Governor, announces the relocation of his law practice.

Baxley | Jackson Law Firm “I’ve tried cases in every county across this state, representing both individuals and businesses.”

Personal Injury - Business Litigation Criminal Law - Administrative Law -

www.baxleyjackson.com “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

B10 March 04, 2020

pelika Observer O Community Happenings Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Community members gathered at Christian Care Ministries last Saturday for the Samford Court Community Fellowship’s annual Black History Month program.

The event included prayer, Scripture reading and portrayals of famous African Americans who made a difference toward ending racial inequality.

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Mary Kathryn Duncan, certified nurse aide instructor for Achievement Center–Easter Seals, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club. Students completing her fiveweek class will have achieved the level of health/science knowledge, patient care skills and abilities required to provide care to patients/residents in long-term care facilities. For more information, call 334-745-3501. Duncan was introduced by Lion Ernie Gazaway.

Council, from B7 pensated $100 for each hour worked. Hopkin is a full-time employee with the City of Columbus

(Georgia).

“As you all know, the state will not provide us a traffic-light technician during an emergency, and we have traffic lights malfunction at least once a month it seems like,” Copeland said. “This is

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer The Pilot Club of Lee County recently donated 20 bicycle helmets to The BigHouse Foundation in Opelika. a good move that will allow us to be able to call someone in the event of a strong storm or unforeseen event that would cause the traffic light to go out.”

The council also renewed its building

inspection contract with Lee County, something Copeland noted occurs every four years, and approved final reports of January’s financial statements provided by City Clerk Scott Johnston.

The Smiths Station

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The Lee County Farmers Federation donated $5,000 to the East Alabama Museum. The funds will be used to restore the antique Case tractor that was donated to the East Alabama Museum by the Whatley Family and build an agriculture center at the museum.

City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month with a work session starting at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time followed by the regular meeting at 6 p.m.

Meetings are held within the council chambers of

2020 CENSUS

the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430. For more information, call 334-297-8771 or visit www.smithsstational.gov.

IT’S ALMOST HERE! Around March 12, you will receive a letter from the U.S. Census Bureau asking you participate in the 2020 Census.

• • • •

It will come in the form of an invitation letter.

You can take the census online, by phone or the old fashion way, on paper.

It’s 10 questions and only takes about SIX minutes.

Data is private and not shared with any local, state or federal law enforcement agency.

For more information, a list of questionnaire locations and events, visit @OpelikaCounts on Facebook.

pelika O Observer

B11 March 04, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES INVITATION TO BID 20014 Sealed bids for the construction of the RENOVATION TO COVINGTON RECREATION CENTER shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Monday March 16, 2020, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At such time and place, the bids will be opened and read.

Bids that are received via mail and not presented at the bid opening are to be considered non-responsive.

It is the responsibility of the bidder to assure that bids are presented at the time of the bid. Contractors must notify the Awarding Authority if a bid is to be received by mail.

At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor.

The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.

Prior to issuance of plans and specifications, all Contractors must provide evidence that they are properly licensed for the classification of work for this project. Evidence shall be in the form of a copy of current license clearly indicating all classifications, or subclassifications, bid limits, license number; and expiration date. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to The City of Opelika in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the proposal, but in no event more than $10,000.00, must accompany the bidder’s proposal for each project. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance as required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract.

Drawings and specifications for the project may be examined at the Office of Lathan Associates Architects, P.C., 300 Chase Park South, Suite 200, Hoover, AL 35244, and at the Digital Plan Room at Alabama Graphics (http:// dpr.algraphics.com). Password is lathan.

MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING SHALL BE HELD AT THE PROJECT SITE AT 10:00 A.M. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2020 Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave, Opelika, Alabama. ANY POTENTIAL BIDDERS MUST ATTEND THIS MEETING General Contractor Bidders may obtain two (2) sets of hard copy drawings and specifications from the Architect upon receipt of deposit check in the amount of $150.00 per set made payable to Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. General Contractors will then be placed on Official Bidders List. Deposit will be refunded in full on the first two sets issued to each General Contractor Bidder upon the return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after receipt of bids. Additional sets of drawings/ specifications and digital copies will be available to General Contractors for purchase directly from the documents printer: Alabama Graphics. Addenda and other proposal information will be issued only to holders of drawings and specifications distributed by the Architect and on the Official Bidders List.

Release of contract documents to the bidder does not imply acceptance of the bidder’s qualifications by the Owner or Architect.

General Contractors who obtain drawings and wish to withdraw from the Bidders List must do so in writing to the office of the Architect prior to bid date, otherwise deposit will be forfeited. Deposit will be refunded in full on sets issued to each General

Contractor Bidder submitting a bonafide bid, upon the return of documents in good, reusable condition within ten (10) days after receipt of proposals.

Bids received from General Contractors who are not on the Official Bidders List may not be accepted or opened. Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. makes no guarantee for plans and specifications obtained by Contractors and Vendors from sources other than the printed contract documents provided by their firm.

Contractors and Vendors who base their pricing from contract documents obtained from other electronic sources, either in part or whole, do so at their own risk.

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof, issued either with the original contract documents or by addendum.

General Contractors shall not use Proposal Forms other than those provided in the contract documents.

All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975.

The Bidder must display current General Contractor’s License Number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered, or it will not be considered by the Architect or Owner. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof, issued either with the original contract documents or by addendum.

General Contractors shall not use Proposal Forms other than those provided in the contract documents.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: RENOVATION TO COVINGTON RECREATION CENTER LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 02/19/20, 02/26/20 & 03/04/2020

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FAY McCLENDON NEWELL, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of February, 2020, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

HERBERT ESLEY NEWELL, JR. FAY NEWELL NEWTON CHARLES TIMOTHY NEWELL DAWN SHEREE NEWELL AND BLISS QUINTINA NEWELL, Personal Representatives Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 02/19/20, 02/26/20 & 03/04/20

In the Matter of the Estate of Angela Ingram Barreto, Deceased In the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Case No. 2019-C-102 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY PERSONAL

REPRESENTATIVE Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 16th day of January, 2020 by the Honorable Bill English Judge of Probate Court for Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Jeffery L. Ingram Legal Run 02/19/20, 02/26/20 & 03/04/20

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF BARBARA W. SMITH COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 19th day of February, 2020, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand, and dated this the 19th day of February, 2020.

LAWRENCE WADE SMITH Legal Run 02/26/20, 03/04/20 & 03/11/2020

STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-076 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF LISA HARRY NATHAN, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR Letters of Administration of the Estate of Lisa Harry Nathan, deceased having been granted to Alexander Adlai Dashner Nathan this 21st day of February, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Alexander Adlai Dashner Nathan, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer 334-745-2564 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, AL 36803-0030 Legal Run 02/26/20, 03/04/20 & 03/11/20

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-071 ALABAMA POWER COMPANY, a corporation, Plaintiff, v.

DEBORAH TUCKER, an individual; GLORIA PATTERSON, an individual; GRANT WIGGINS, an individual; JERI BROWN, an individual; WENDELL WIGGINS, an individual; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF KATIE MAE TUCKER, if any; ALPHONSO ELLIOTT, an individual; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MARY ECHOLS; SHIRLEY STRICKLAND, an individual; MICHAEL STRICKLAND, an individual; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF GEORGE STRICKLAND; and OLINE PRICE, as Revenue Commissioner, Defendants.

LEGAL NOTICE TO DEFENDANTS BY PUBLICATION TO: (1) Defendant Unknown Heirs of Katie Mae Tucker (2) Defendant Unknown Heirs of Mary Echols (3) Defendant Unknown Heirs of George Strickland You are hereby notified that Alabama Power Company, a corporation, has filed its written complaint in this Court seeking to condemn and to acquire the lands, rights, and interests therein described for ways and rights-of-way upon which to erect towers, poles, wire lines, and other appliances necessary and convenient

in connection therewith for the manufacture, supply, and sale to the public of electric power on, across, under, over, and adjacent to strips of land according to the final location survey of the said ways and rightsof-way heretofore made by the plaintiff, and also right of ingress and egress, said strips of land and the lands of which the same are a part being situated in Lee County, Alabama, and being described as follows: Parcel 19 A strip of land, varying in width, lying within the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter (SW ¼ of the NW ¼) of Section 25, Township 19 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, such strip being more particularly described as follows: To reach the point of beginning of said strip, commence at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Township 19 North, Range 25 East, marked by a found 8”x 8” concrete monument; thence run S43°33’20”E, a distance of 2017.83 feet to a set 5/8” rebar with yellow APCO cap; thence runs S64°26’30”W, a distance of 305.43 feet to a set 5/8”reber with yellow APCo cap; thence runs S66°06’21”W, a distance of 845.29 feet to a set 5/8”rebar with yellow APCo cap; thence runs S67°22’22”W, a distance of 4.82 feet to a point (the Southeast corner of Defendants’ property lies 1.2 feet left (southeast) from such point), such point being the Point of Beginning of a survey line used to describe said strip of right-of-way herein described; therefrom said strip is varying in width and lies 15 feet right (northwest) of said survey line and which lies up to, and coincident with the northwesterly right-ofway edge of Martin Luther King Drive, Alabama State Highway No. 14 to the left (southeast) of said survey line, and the continuations thereof, which begins at such point of beginning and continues running S67°22’22”W, a distance of 110.13 feet to a point (the Southwest corner of Defendants’ property lies 4.6 feet left (southeast) from such point), such point being the point of ending of the strip of right-of-way herein described.

All bearings based on Alabama State Plane East Zone Grid North.

The Parcel 19 Defendants have, may have, or claim to have an interest in, the above-described land.

APC Property ID # 72242529 Parcel 23 A strip of land, varying in width, lying within the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter (SW ¼ of the NW ¼) of Section 25, Township 19 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, such strip being more particularly described as follows: To reach the point of beginning of said strip, commence at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Township 19 North, Range 25 East, marked by a found 8”x 8” concrete monument; thence run S43°33’20”E, a distance of 2017.83 feet to a set 5/8” rebar with yellow APCO cap; thence runs S64°26’30”W, a distance of 305.43 feet to a set 5/8”reber with yellow APCo cap; thence runs S66°06’21”W, a distance of distance of 588.03 feet to a point (the Southeast corner of Defendants’ property lies 0.4 feet right (northwest) from such point), such point being the Point of Beginning of a survey line used to describe said strip of right-of-way herein described; therefrom said strip is varying in width and lies 15 feet right (northwest) of said survey line (Less and Except any portion of said strip which lies southeast of the northwesterly right-of-way edge of Martin Luther King Drive, Alabama State Highway No. 14), and the continuations thereof, which begins at such point of beginning and continues running S66°06’21”W, a distance of 64.06 feet to a point on the northwesterly edge of said Martin Luther King Drive; therefrom,

said strip is varying in width and lies 15 feet right (northwest) of said survey line and which lies up to, and coincident with the northwesterly right-of-way edge of said Martin Luther King Drive to the left (southeast) of said survey line, and the continuations thereof; thence continue S66°06’21”W, a distance of 50.21 feet to a point (the Southwest corner of Defendants’ property lies 0.3 feet left (southeast) from such point), such point being the point of ending of the strip of rightof-way herein described.

All bearings based on Alabama State Plane East Zone Grid North.

The Parcel 23 Defendants have, may have, or claim to have an interest in, the above-described land.

APC Property ID # 72242532 Parcel 25 A strip of land, varying in width, lying within the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter (SW ¼ of the NW ¼) of Section 25, Township 19 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, such strip being more particularly described as follows: To reach the point of beginning of said strip, commence at the Northwest corner of Section 25, Township 19 North, Range 25 East, marked by a found 8”x 8” concrete monument; thence run S43°33’20”E, a distance of 2017.83 feet to a set 5/8” rebar with yellow APCO cap; thence runs S64°26’30”W, a distance of 305.43 feet to a set 5/8” rebar with yellow APCO cap; thence runs S66°06’21”W, a distance of 434.95 feet to a point on the centerline of Jordan Street, such point being the Point of Beginning of a survey line used to describe said strip of right-of-way herein described; therefrom said strip is varying in width and lies 15 feet right (northwest) of said survey line (Less and Except any portion of said strip which lies northeast of the southwesterly right-of-way edge of said Jordan Street or which lies southeast of the northwesterly right-ofway edge of Martin Luther King Drive, Alabama State Highway No. 14), and the continuations thereof, which begins at such point of beginning and continues running S66°06’21”W, a distance of 18.64 feet to a point (the Southeast corner of Defendant’s property lies 1.4 feet right (northwest) from such point); thence continue running S66°06’21”W, a distance of 59 feet, more or less, to a point (the Southwest corner of Defendants’ property lies 1 foot, more or less, right (northwest) from such point), such point being the point of ending of the strip of right-of-way herein described.

All bearings based on Alabama State Plane East Zone Grid North.

The Parcel 25 Defendants have, may have, or claim to have an interest in, the above-described land.

APC Property ID # 72242534 The hearing on said complaint has been set by this Court for the 1st day of April 2020 at 11:00 o’clock A.M. You may respond by answer but you are not required to do so unless you challenge the right to condemn or question or dispute the area to be acquired or to remain. Notice of said complaint and of the day so appointed for the hearing thereof is hereby given you.

Witness my hand this 20th day of February 2020 .

Bill English Judge of the Lee County Probate Court Legal Run 03/04/2020, 03/11/2020, 03/18/2020 & 03/25/2020

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Gary L. Jones, an unmarried man, on December 10, 2010, to Frontier Bank now known as Renasant Bank, which mortgage

is recorded in Mortgage Book 3774, Page 819, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, the undersigned, as Mortgagee or Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in the said mortgage will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash in front of the main entrance of the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama, on March 6, 2020, during the legal hours of sale the following real estate situated in Lee County, Alabama, to wit: Lot Number One (#1) of a plat of survey, stated August 8, 1984, prepared for Peggy Jones Newsome by Zack D. Sprayberry, III, AL L.S. Reg. No. 12933, which real property maybe more particularly described as follows: From the Southwest corner of the Northwest quarter of Section 6, Township 19 North, Range 29 East in Lee County, Alabama, run thence North for 1605.1 feet; thence East for 2014.1 feet to appoint on the southerly margin of Lee County Highway No. 79; thence along the southerly margin of said highway, South 64° 08’ East, for 33.5 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, From this beginning point, continue South 64° 08’ East, along the southerly margin of said highway for 38.1 feet to a concrete monument; thence South 64° 03’ East for 335.4 feet to an iron pin; thence leaving said highway , run South 34° 42’ West for 543.2 feet to an iron pin thence North 64° 08’ West for 391.8 feet; thence North 29° 34’ East for 238.4 feet to an iron pin; thence North 35° 52’ East for 240.9 feet to an iron pin; thence North 61° 27’ East for 76.4 feet to the iron pin at the POINT OF BEGINNING. LESS AND EXCEPT: Lot Number One-B (#1B) of a plat of survey dated November 15, 1996, prepared for Richard W. Waites and Tammy R. Waites by Zack Sprayberry, PLS AL Reg. No. 12933, a copy of said plat having been marked Exhibit “A” and attached to Warranty Deed Record in Deed Book 2113 at Page 323 and made a part hereof by reference, and said real property being more fully described as follows: From the Southwest corner of Section 6, Township 19 North, Range 29 East, Lee County, Alabama; run thence North 3765.0 feet; thence run East 1366.4 feet to an iron pin found being the POINT OF BEGINNING. From said point of beginning, run North 29° 34’ East for a distance of 238.4 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 35° 52’ East for a distance of 240.9 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 61° 27’ East for 76.4 feet to an iron pin found; thence run South 64° 08’ East along the Southerly margin of Lee Road 279 for a distance of 38.1 feet to a concrete monument found; thence run South 64° 03’ East along the Southerly margin of Lee Road 279 for a distance of 71.9 feet to an iron pin set; thence run South 30° 25’ West for a distance of 538.9 feet to an iron pin set; thence run North 64° 08’ West for a distance of 169.0 feet to an iron pin found and being the POINT OF BEGINNING. Together with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging. Said property will be sold on an “AS IS, WHERE IS” basis subject to the right of way easements and restrictions of record in the Probate Office of Lee County, Alabama, and will be subject to existing special assessments, if any, which might adversely affect the title to the subject property.

This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure.

This Mortgage Foreclosure sale has been continued. It will be held on March 6, 2020, at the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama. The sale was originally set for February 26, 2020.

See Notices, page B12

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B12 March 04, 2020

Report from Washington

President Trump and East Alabama Special to the Opelika Observer As many folks may have seen recently in the news, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced last Saturday that the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) in Anniston would be used as a quarantine center for some Americans exposed to Coronavirus.

I was floored when I learned of the plan on Saturday around lunchtime and immediately started working with local officials, Governor Ivey, Senator Shelby and President Trump to stop it.

As Alabamians, we are and have always been compassionate people. We pride ourselves in helping our fellow brothers and sisters, but in this case, bringing these infected individuals to Anniston would have been a recipe for disaster – both for Anniston and for the infected individuals.

The CDP is a worldclass, one-of-a-kind training facility. We are so fortunate to have it right in our back yard in Calhoun County.

However, the CDP is not a medical facility – it is a hands-on training facility.

It simply does not have the infrastructure to house these individuals safely.

On top of that, the local hospitals in the area are in no way equipped to handle this deadly, airborne virus.

The entire plan was completely flawed from the get-go. Anniston and the CDP are simply not prepared to take on the appropriate levels of care needed for these Americans who were exposed. It wasn’t fair to them.

Thank goodness East Alabama has President Trump’s ear.

In a whirlwind almost 24 hours, I spoke to the president to explain the situation.

I then spoke to President Trump a second time along with Secretary Alex Azar.

Then on Sunday afternoon, President Trump called me to say he cancelled the plan. Thank you, President Trump!

I cannot thank President Trump enough for standing up for us and ensuring this plan was not carried out. It wasn’t right for Anniston and it wasn’t right for the Coronavirus patients.

Please sign up for my eNewsletter and the Rogers’ Roundup by visiting my custom website at: www. mikerogers.house.gov.

To stay up to date, follow any or all of my social platforms as well.

You can like my Facebook page at facebook. com/CongressmanMikeDRogers, follow me on Twitter and Instagram using the handle @RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page by visiting youtube.com/MikeRogersAL03.

Notices, from B11 Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.

Renasant Bank, f/k/a Frontier Bank Mortgagee or Transferee This Instrument Prepared By: Burt W. Newsome P.O. Box 382753 Birmingham, AL 35238 Attorney for Mortgagee or Transferee Legal Run: 3/4/2020

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO. 202-090 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of CLINTON VIRGIL SHIRLEY SR. Deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Tamara Lynne Bue on March 2, 2020 pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 03/04/2020

ORDINANCE NO. 007-20 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BE IT ORDAINED by the

City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. FINDINGS. The Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct: (a) Kyle S. Drake, Jr., heretofore submitted to the City a development plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) entitled Drakes Landing PUD on approximately 150 acres. (b) The proposed development is located in a R-1 District (Rural District) and is located on the eastern side of South Uniroyal Road at 2015 South Uniroyal Road. (c) The proposed Development Plan provides for 190 single-family residential lots and approximately 57 acres of undeveloped open space. The minimum lot size is 15,000 square feet. The Development is accessed from South Uniroyal Road. The access street is a boulevard type with a wider entrance and two lanes separated by a median. (d) The Planning Commission heretofore conducted a public hearing of the proposed development and referred to the City Council its recommendation to approve the proposed development. (e) It is advisable and in the interest of the City and the public interest that the proposed property described in Section 3 below should be developed as a unified residential development.

Section 2. APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN. The Development Plan as submitted for review is hereby approved and affirmed as required

by Section 8.18(N) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City, subject to compliance with the following requirements, conditions and modifications: (a) The Developer shall install underground utilities. (b) The Developer shall install sidewalks on at least one side of all streets. (c) The Developer shall relocate the street stubout shown at the north property line to align with

the proposed street shown on the Master Plan. The street stub-out provides an alternative future access point. (d) The Developer shall provide a 25-foot natural undisturbed buffer or a six-foot high opaque fence along the near lot line lots hat abut the north, south and west perimeter property lines.

Section 3. DESIGNATION OF A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT. The official Zoning Map is hereby amended and the zoning classification for the following parcel of land shall be changed from a R-1 District (Rural District) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) on the official zoning map of the City.

Parcel B of Kyle S. Drake, Jr., Subdivision according to and as shown by map or plat of said subdivision of record in Plat Book 13, at Page 84, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

The above property is located at 2015 South Uniroyal Road.

Section 4. RETENTION OF COPIES OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Copies of the Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection.

Section 5. REPEALER. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 7. PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard.

Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL

36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-2083 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 4th day of March, 2020 /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 4th day of March, 2020. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 4th day of March, 2020. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones City Clerk Legal Run 03/04/2020

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF CHRISTINE LOCKHART, DECEASED PROBATE COURT 2016-1-248 LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been grated to Theresa L. Milner on the 18th day of September, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Theresa L. Milner Legal Run 03/04/20, 03/11/2020 & 03/18/2020

Alabama Space Authority elects Tom Whatley as vice-chair Special to the Opelika Observer

The Alabama Space Authority held its second meeting this week where Sens. Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) and Tom Whatley (RAuburn) were elected chair vice-chair of the body.

Appointed by Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, both senators plan to work on the topic in an effort to make Alabama a leader in the space industry.

Livingston, who played a key role in the creation of the Aerospace and Defense Caucus and serves as its chair, also said that the Alabama Space Authority will be looking into how Alabama can improve this industry.

“We are looking into the possibility of the Dream Chaser being able to land in Huntsville,” Livingston said.

“This is going to be a great opportunity to look into how the legislature can aid in supporting the aerospace and defense industry in Alabama.”

Whatley said he was honored to be selected as vice-chair and that space is a growing industry in Alabama.

“I’m proud to be a member and because this is a big deal for our entire state, from Huntsville to Auburn’s aerospace programs and to the robust aircraft manufacturing on the coast. Aerospace is a $12 billion industry and a key component to Alabama’s economy,” Whatley said.

Livingston expects to receive an update from the U.S. Space Command and is looking forward to bringing more space industry projects to Alabama.

The committee meets quarterly and will meet next on May 5 in Montgomery.

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B13 March 04, 2020

Jeffrey Harris, Jeremy Gray receive awards at recent Auburn U. event Photo special to the Opelika Observer The Black Graduate and Professional Student Association and Auburn University ‘s Office of Outreach and Office of Inclusion and Diversity hosted the “2nd Annual Black History Unsung Hero Gala” last week. Pictured from left to right: guest speaker and Talladega Mayor Timothy Ragland, ‘Community Award’ recipient Jeffery Harris and ‘Humanitarian Award’ recipient by House District 83 Rep. Jeremy Gray. For more information, visit www.diversity.auburn. edu/.

Legislation to protect children from human trafficking introduced by Sen. Doug Jones Special to the Opelika Observer Sen. Doug Jones (DAla.) recently introduced the bipartisan Human Trafficking and Exploitation Prevention Training Act of 2020 along with his colleagues U.S. Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Tina Smith (D-Minnesota).

Their bill would help prevent the trafficking and exploitation of children by providing grants to train students, parents, teachers and school personnel to recognize and respond to signs of human trafficking.

While trafficking victims come from all walks of life and do not fit a particular profile, young people with certain risk factors may be more vulnerable to trafficking. For example, they may be at risk if they are in the child welfare or juvenile justice system, are homeless or ran away from home, or are unaccompanied or were forced to leave their home by their caregivers.

“Every year, thousands of people, mostly women and children, are trafficked across the state of Alabama. The battle against human trafficking is one that we have to wage on all fronts, but our teachers and school personnel are on the front lines.

With additional training and resources, we can continue to raise awareness about the signs of trafficking and

hopefully prevent this systemic exploitation of children and other vulnerable people,” Jones said, who is a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee.

“Alabama has been fighting sex trafficking and exploitation since 2009. We continue to see more and more cases each year affecting schoolaged children and even children as young as four years old. The Human Trafficking and Exploitation Prevention Training Act of 2020 will enable us to target the appropriate demographic with much-needed prevention training and education in schools and equip our children, along with their teachers, parents, and other school employees, to know the signs and dangers of trafficking and exploitation and how to avoid becoming a victim. Thank you, Senator Jones, for sponsoring this very important prevention bill,” said Pat McCay, chair of the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force.

This legislation would: • authorize the director of the Office of Trafficking in Persons in the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) to establish a demonstration project to issue grants to non-profit organizations and schools to develop and implement age-appropriate, culturally competent,

crecy can fuel human trafficking, protecting traffickers from law enforcement and prosecution, and this legislation will help increase transparency and expose bad actors.

Senator Jones has also supported renewal of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which includes important anti-trafficking provisions and has encouraged the Office of Management and Budget to provide robust funding for VAWA grants.

In 2018, Senator Jones also cosponsored the Stop En-

Jones and gender-responsive curriculum for training students, parents, teachers and school personnel to understand, recognize, prevent and respond to signs of human trafficking; • instruct the director to give priority to eligible entities serving geographic areas with the highest prevalence of human trafficking and areas with the highest prevalence of at-risk, vulnerable, or underserved populations including homeless youth, foster youth, youth involved in the child welfare system and runaways; and, • set forth important data collection on the human trafficking/exploitation of children and strict, privacyprotected reporting requirements for the program.

Background: As a former US Attorney, Senator Jones understands the complexity of human trafficking, and he has championed legislation that would prevent the targeting of vulnerable people. He is an original cospon-

sor of the bipartisan ILLICIT Cash Act (S.2563), which helps law enforcement to combat illicit financial activity being carried out by human traffickers. Corporate se-

abling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA), which allowed law enforcement and civil litigants to target web platforms harboring and hosting sex trafficking activity. The House of Representatives version of the bill passed both chambers of Congress and was signed into law in April 2018.

If you believe you have information about a trafficking situation, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline for 24/7 confidential assistance at 1-888-3737888 or text 233733.

We would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring one or more of our newspaper boxes and racks around Lee County

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B14 March 04, 2020

pelika O Observer

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku?

Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

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pelika O Observer

B16 March 04, 2020

Open letter to Gov. Kay Ivey - A plea for Nathaniel Woods Dear Governor Ivey, My name is Elaena Faraino Starr and I personally spent seven long days sitting on a metal chair reading more than 2,500 pages of Nathaniel Woods’ court transcripts, motions from the State and Defense, and appeals notes. I’ve spent an additional 250 hours over the past 28 days studying every last word of Nathaniel’s case.

While I may not have a legal degree, I am highly analytical and detailoriented. Not only do I have a strong memory of what I read, but I also took meticulous notes on every key aspect of this

case. I personally paid to have the entire court file given to me so that I could study every last detail of this case. I am surrounded by lawyers in my family and understand the basic principles of justice.

I then shared my entire notes with my daughter Lauren Faraino to get her legal opinion.

With all humility, my daughter Lauren got a perfect score on the SAT college assessment and was accepted into Harvard, Yale, Princeton and Stanford. Lauren attended Harvard and University of Chicago Law School. She then practiced at the best

corporate law firm in the world, Wachtell Lipton, in New York City.

Lauren and I completed a summary on our findings on this case.

Every single person of a conservative nature that I have shared this document with has come to the same conclusion that I have: Nathaniel was wrongfully convicted.

The people who have read this report passionately believe that this case – Nathaniel’s life – warrants further consideration.

We must not allow the execution of Nathaniel Woods to be carried out on Thursday, March 5, 2020. I plead with you to

sit down uninterrupted and personally read every word of our report.

It is crucial that you personally read our report rather than exclusively relying on a case summary from a staff member.

I will be frank with you: if I had not done my own research and had only read the case summaries prepared by the court, I would never have though Nathaniel was a man worth fighting for.

Yet the simple fact is, the court summary fails to adequately address the many, many errors and inconsistencies that led a jury to wrongfully convict Nathaniel.

Armed with the full truth

of Nathaniel’s case, I feel confident speaking out against the certain injustice of his death sentence.

I humbly request for you to hit the PAUSE button and allow Nathaniel’s new legal team to show the evidence that his prior lawyers missed, through no fault of Nathaniel himself.

I have never in my life even remotely stood up for anyone in this manner. Usually I read about an injustice or mistake, say “that is too bad” and then proceed with my life. But that is not the way to live. We cannot stand by and let this happen, especially after

seeing this case in a new light.

Thank you for your integrity, your conscience and your courage.

Elaena Faraino Starr Elaena F. Starr is the mother of three children and a lifetime resident of Alabama, originally from Fayette. She is the founder and previous owner of Magic Muffins Bakery in Mountain Brook. Starr attended Auburn University, where she was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority and graduated from the Mississippi University for Women, where she was an officer for the College Republicans’ Club.

WAYS YOU CAN RECYCLE RIGHT IN OPELIKA. Curbside Recycling - Single Stream Collected every other week. $10 per month / First two months free Call Opelika Power to sign up.

334.705.5170 8th Avenue Center 600 8th Avenue Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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For a full list of what is accepted and not accepted, go to opelika-al.gov. Click on Environmental Services, then Recycling Services/Accepted/Non-Accepted Items.

700 Fox Trail • Opelika, AL 36801 334.705.5480 • www.opelika-al.gov

This week’s puzzle answers: